As U.S. semiconductor sanctions against China intensify, American companies like Qualcomm and Intel are enhancing their collaborations with Chinese firms. With China emerging as a key hub for applying and commercializing artificial intelligence (AI) technology beyond its vast consumer market, U.S. companies are seeking to expand partnerships within the local industrial ecosystem.
According to a report by China's state-run Global Times on October 19, Meng Pu, president of Qualcomm China, emphasized at an AI industry conference in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, on October 17 that China's strengths extend beyond its market size. He noted that China's complete supply chain, diverse application environments, vibrant innovation ecosystem, and rich pool of engineering talent support the development and large-scale commercialization of new technologies. Meng stated, "Qualcomm has collaborated with Chinese companies for over 30 years, and last year we launched AI acceleration projects with Chinese telecom operators, device manufacturers, and AI model developers," expressing a commitment to expanding Qualcomm's business in China. Since 2021, Qualcomm has supplied Snapdragon solutions for over 300 connected car models and is currently negotiating custom AI semiconductor designs with China's tech giant ByteDance.
Intel is also broadening its connections within the Chinese supply chain. In July, the company announced a strategic partnership with Chinese glass processing firm Lens Technology to develop advanced semiconductor packaging technologies. The two companies plan to combine their research and development capabilities in glass substrates and precision processing to advance semiconductor packaging technologies for AI and data centers.
Apple is also expanding its collaboration with China. Tim Cook, chairman of Apple's board, met last week with Wang Wentao, China's Minister of Commerce, to discuss AI development and the economic and trade relations between the two countries. Cook expressed optimism about China's growth prospects and indicated plans to expand local operations.
An industry expert in China remarked, "The actions of U.S. tech companies reflect a shift in China's role in global innovation. Once merely a vast market, China is now emerging as a center for advanced technology development, testing, and commercialization." He added that global companies can accelerate commercialization by integrating into China's innovation ecosystem.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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