Navigating AI Leadership and Export Controls: A U.S. Perspective

The United States aims to maintain its leadership in artificial intelligence both domestically and internationally. However, this ambition comes with the challenge of ensuring that advancements in AI do not inadvertently bolster foreign adversaries. Striking this balance requires careful strategizing and policy-making.

The U.S. currently leads in data center construction, computing hardware performance, and AI models. This advantage needs to be leveraged into a sustainable global alliance, while simultaneously preventing adversaries from capitalizing on U.S. innovations. One proposed measure is to enhance AI chip export controls through innovative approaches.

Policy recommendations highlight collaboration between government bodies and the AI industry to develop chip location verification features. Moreover, there is a call to establish enforcement mechanisms for potential chip export restrictions, focusing on component subsystems that are not currently emphasized in existing export controls.

International collaboration is crucial. The U.S. seeks alignment with global allies to impose strong export controls on sensitive technologies, encouraging partners to adhere to these restrictions. Tools such as the Foreign Direct Product Rule and secondary tariffs could be employed to foster international cooperation.

While the strategy outlines foundational elements for future AI chip export guidelines, it lacks detailed implementation plans. The complexity of these issues is underscored by recent policy reversals, highlighting the need for cohesive and consistent strategies moving forward.

As the U.S. administration prepares to sign executive orders, the focus will likely be on organizing relevant government departments to develop a clear path forward, rather than issuing immediate formal guidelines.