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International Science & Technology Innovation Outlook

U.S. Chip Technology Alliance Portfolio Based on the Value  Chain and Supply Chain and China's Countermeasures 

Zhou Xiaoming1 , Lin Minmin2 

(1.Academy of International Law and Global Governance, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430000, China; 2.School  of Political Science & Public Administration, Wuhan University, Wuhan 430000, China)

Abstract: Semiconductor chip technology is a focal point in the current U.S.-China techno⁃ logical competition. Due to the high complexity of the chip technology value chain and supply  chain, the United States has changed its technological alliance strategy from singular bilateral or  multilateral alliances to an alliance portfolio that targets the entire chip value chain and supply  chain. This approach aims to form a comprehensive ecosystem to hinder China's development in  semiconductor chip technology. The core objective of this study is to explore how the United  States leverages its technological advantage in chip design and manufacturing equipment to es⁃ tablish a multi-layered, multi-dimensional alliance portfolio. This research analyzes U.S. chip  alliances from structural and subjective dimensions by utilizing a framework of alliance portfo⁃ lios and employing comparative and case analysis methods. The U.S. horizontal value chain alli⁃ ances (such as CHIP4 and SEEC) unite countries and regions with technological strengths in  high value-added segments of chip production, thereby maintaining U.S. leadership in chip design and manufacturing equipment. Meanwhile, vertical supply chain alliances (such as QUAD, MSP, IPEF, and TTC) ensure the stability and security of the U.S. chip supply chain by integrat⁃ ing key material-producing countries and downstream market nations. While these alliance port⁃ folios bolster U.S. dominance in the global chip industry chain, internal structural competition, diverging interests, and varying perceptions among allies regarding China's technological rise  hinder seamless cooperation within the U.S. alliance network. This study provides strategic in⁃ sights for China in countering U.S. chip technology alliance portfolios. From a structural perspec⁃ tive, China can capitalize on its comparative advantages in the chip value chain and supply  chain nodes, particularly in assembly, testing, and raw material supply. By strengthening coop⁃ eration with countries involved in the global chip supply chain, especially those in resource-rich  regions like Africa and Latin America, China can expand its structural advantages and ensure  the diversity and security of its supply chain. From a subjective perspective, China should  strengthen economic and trade relationships with U.S. allies by using its physical resources, em⁃ phasizing reciprocity and mutual development. Additionally, China should actively engage in  shaping global technological rules through platforms such as international standardization organi⁃ zations. This engagement will enhance its institutional discourse right in global tech governance, thereby weakening the cohesion of U.S.-led alliances and opening up global cooperation opportu⁃ nities for the development of Chinese chip technology. 

Key words: alliance portfolio; chip technology; chip value chain; chip supply chain; U. S. - China science and technology competition