US-China Tech Fight Intensifies as Taiwan Enforces New Huawei Removed
Tensions in the technology battle between the US and China have grown even stronger. This time, Taiwan has stepped in. On June 14, 2025, Taiwan announced a new ban on Huawei equipment. It’s not just talk. They’ve removed dozens of Huawei products from government and public sector use. The reason? National security risks tied to China’s growing tech reach.
We’ve seen this before. The US placed Huawei under trade restrictions in 2019. Since then, many Western countries have followed. But Taiwan’s move hits differently. Taiwan is a major tech hub and home to TSMC, one of the top chip manufacturers in the world. When Taiwan decides this, the world notices.
We’re watching a global shift. It’s no longer just a US-China issue. More countries are drawing lines in the digital sand. And with Taiwan joining in, things are about to heat up even more.
In this article, we’ll examine what Taiwan did, why it matters, and how it fits into the bigger tech fight between two of the world’s biggest powers.
History of the US-China Technology Conflict
The US first hit Huawei with trade bans back in 2019. The aim was to block China from getting high-end technology. China responded by boosting its tech self-reliance. Over time, Taiwan joined the US in these restrictions. The removal now includes hundreds of entities.
Taiwan’s Strategic Position
Taiwan matters in this fightIt is home to TSMC, the largest semiconductor manufacturing company in the world. TSMC produces chips that are crucial for artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. That gives Taiwan a lot of power in global tech politics.
Taipei also faces pressure from China. The removal shows worries about protecting national security and preventing outside interference. By taking a strong stance, Taiwan signals its alignment with US tech policies.
Details of the New Huawei
Taiwan’s updated “strategic high-tech” list now includes Huawei, SMIC, and their subsidiaries. This means any Taiwan-based company must obtain government approval before exporting high-tech goods to them. Nearly 601 entities are covered now.
Affected tech includes chip manufacturing hardware, AI materials, and related plant construction equipment. The restrictions also apply to some foreign Huawei units in Japan, Russia, and Germany.
Reactions from Key Stakeholders
Taiwan’s government says this move aims to prevent tech transfer that could aid China’s military. US officials see it as a welcome step in tech diplomacy.
China has not officially reacted yet, but it may push back diplomatically or economically. So far, Huawei and SMIC haven’t made any public statements.
Impact on Global Tech Industry
This change disrupts supply chains. Companies in Taiwan now need to reconsider how they export technology. Global chipmakers and AI firms may see delays in parts or licensing. Some suppliers have already limited their dealings with Huawei in recent years.
Markets likely react to rising uncertainty. Investors will track chip stocks and supply chain shifts closely.
What This Means for Huawei
Huawei faces deeper isolation. Losing access to Taiwan-made tech may slow its AI chip and telecom hardware progress. SMIC also loses access to advanced fabrication support and materials.
These firms may have to rely on lower-grade tech. Or, they could accelerate domestic innovation, but that will need time and investment.
Broader Geopolitical Implications
Taiwan’s move shows growing US influence in Asia’s tech sector. Other countries may follow suit to align with Washington. This intensifies the tech divide, especially around 5G and AI.
There’s also a risk of Taiwan-China tensions rising further. Technology is now central in cross-strait relations.
Future Outlook
We may see more countries removing Chinese tech firms. Taiwan’s step sets a new standard.
Huawei and SMIC could pivot to internal R&D or seek alternate partners.
Overall, expect a more fragmented global tech landscape, where alliances, not just capabilities, decide access.
Conclusion
Taiwan’s removal of Huawei and SMIC marks a turning point. As a tech titan, its moves carry weight. This builds on US policies against China’s tech growth.
The result? A more divided tech world, with critical chokepoints guarded closely.
We’re now watching a new chapter in the tech arms race, where chips and AI shape global power.
FAQS
Huawei says it is a private company. But many experts believe it has close ties with the Chinese government, especially through funding and national security programs.
Yes, the US cancelled some export licenses. This stopped American chipmakers from selling certain advanced semiconductors and tech tools to Huawei.
The US sanctions hit Huawei hard. They lost access to top chips and software. This slowed down their phones, 5G plans, and global sales.