中资芯片的绝境反击之路

Core Viewpoint - The global semiconductor industry is facing unprecedented fractures, particularly affecting Chinese investments in overseas semiconductor companies due to geopolitical tensions and national security concerns [1]. Group 1: Investment and Acquisition - In December 2021, a Chinese investment firm, Jian Guang Asset, acquired 80.2% of FTDI for $414 million, marking a significant step for China's semiconductor industry to fill its technology gaps [3]. - FTDI, a leader in USB bridge chips, holds nearly 20% of the global market share and serves various sectors including automotive electronics and medical devices [3]. - The UK government initiated a retrospective investigation into this acquisition under the National Security and Investment Act, citing vague national security risks despite FTDI's civilian focus [4][5]. Group 2: Legal and Regulatory Challenges - The UK government set a deadline of December 2025 for the forced sale of FTDI shares, which could lead to significant financial losses for Jian Guang Asset due to a lack of competitive bidding [5]. - Jian Guang Asset attempted to challenge the UK government's order in court, but the court upheld the government's decision, emphasizing the importance of national security [5][6]. - The situation reflects a broader trend of using legal frameworks as tools for geopolitical maneuvering, particularly against Chinese investments in advanced technologies [6][8]. Group 3: Broader Implications for the Semiconductor Industry - The ongoing geopolitical tensions are leading to a fragmentation of the semiconductor supply chain, which could increase costs and hinder innovation across the industry [8][9]. - The case of Nexperia in the Netherlands illustrates the unintended consequences of government interventions, which can disrupt entire supply chains and affect numerous downstream customers [9][10]. - China's response to these challenges includes accelerating domestic production capabilities and seeking alternative supply chains to mitigate geopolitical risks [11][12]. Group 4: Future Outlook and Strategies - Chinese companies are exploring international arbitration to challenge governmental interventions, aiming to set precedents for future cases [11]. - The trend of "decoupling" from international supply chains is becoming more pronounced, as companies seek to ensure production continuity amid geopolitical uncertainties [10][11]. - The semiconductor industry is at a crossroads, with the need for transparent and predictable international rules becoming increasingly critical to avoid further fragmentation and to foster cooperation [15].