Trump-Xi summit should focus on a resilient, allied chip supply chain

In preparation for the upcoming Trump-Xi summit, the article contends that U.S. semiconductor strategy should not be reduced to a binary choice between Chinese reliance and complete domestic production. Drawing on military logistics, it stresses the importance of diversified, redundant supply lines rather than sole self-sufficiency. An imminent AI memory crunch, with DRAM costs projected to rise sharply, highlights the urgency.

While expanding U.S. fab capacity is essential, the author recommends immediate collaboration with allies—particularly Japan and South Korea—who already invest in U.S. manufacturing. Strategic export controls, coordinated with partners, should limit Beijing’s access to advanced chip tools without demanding total domestic fabrication. The overall goal is a resilient, allied semiconductor ecosystem that safeguards both economic and security interests.