Core Viewpoint - The article discusses China's ambitious goal of achieving a 70% self-sufficiency rate in semiconductor production by 2025, which is deemed unrealistic, with projections suggesting a self-sufficiency rate of only 14% by 2025 and around 30% by 2030. The impact of export restrictions on companies like Huawei is also highlighted, indicating a need for the Chinese government to adjust its targets based on current realities [1]. Logic: Ongoing Regulatory Challenges - Western countries have imposed restrictions on Huawei due to security concerns, particularly in the 5G sector, which has hindered China's ability to produce advanced semiconductors. The restrictions on ASML's EUV lithography equipment and TSMC's supply to Huawei have significantly impacted production capabilities [2]. - Despite these challenges, Huawei has managed to release 5G-compatible smartphones, indicating that it has found ways to utilize non-regulated equipment to achieve 7nm processes, prompting further regulatory actions from the U.S. government [2]. Advanced Semiconductor Design Capabilities - Chinese companies, including Huawei and Cambricon, possess advanced capabilities in designing cutting-edge SoCs, but they currently lack the manufacturing technology to produce these systems. The potential for China to develop its own EUV lithography equipment exists, but it may take a decade or more to realize [3]. Other Semiconductors: Power Semiconductors as a Key Area - The article identifies power semiconductors, including analog and discrete devices, as a growing segment where China could significantly increase its market share and potentially disrupt the global market [4]. - In 2023, despite a downturn in the semiconductor industry, equipment shipments to mainland China increased significantly, indicating a strategic response to export restrictions. By 2024, shipments to China are expected to continue growing, capturing about half of the global market share [6]. Electric Vehicle Market Influence - The demand for power semiconductors, particularly discrete devices, is rapidly increasing due to the growth of the electric vehicle market in China. This trend suggests that China will inevitably strengthen its manufacturing capabilities in this critical area [6]. - The article draws parallels between the rapid decline in lithium-ion battery prices and the potential for similar price reductions in the power semiconductor market, suggesting that Chinese manufacturers could emerge as significant players [7].

Core Viewpoint - Huawei has made a significant comeback in the Chinese smartphone market, reclaiming the top position with a market share of 18.1% in Q2 2025, marking its return to the forefront after a challenging period due to sanctions and market competition [5][6][14]. Market Dynamics - The Chinese smartphone market has faced a decline, with Q2 2025 showing a 4% year-on-year decrease in shipments, totaling 68.96 million units, ending a six-quarter growth streak [11][12]. - Despite the introduction of national subsidies, the expected boost in consumer demand has been limited, leading manufacturers to control inventory levels and rely on promotional events to clear stock [10][11][12]. Competitive Landscape - In Q2 2025, Huawei's competitors, including Vivo, OPPO, Xiaomi, and Apple, experienced a decline in shipments, with only Xiaomi showing a slight growth of 3.4% [13][19]. - Honor, once a strong competitor benefiting from Huawei's challenges, has seen its market share drop to approximately 12.8%, failing to rank among the top five smartphone brands [19][20]. Historical Context - Huawei's market share peaked at 46% in Q2 2020 before sanctions led to a significant decline, forcing the sale of its sub-brand Honor [25][26]. - The company has been on a recovery path since 2023, driven by the successful launch of the Mate 60 series and a resurgence in its product lineup [27][28]. Product Strategy - Huawei's strategy includes a focus on high-end smartphones and the introduction of innovative products like foldable phones, where it holds a dominant market share of nearly 50% in China [30][31]. - The company has also been expanding its product offerings, including the launch of the HarmonyOS 6, which aims to enhance AI capabilities and user interaction [43][44]. Future Challenges - Despite regaining the top position, Huawei faces challenges in returning to international markets due to ongoing sanctions and a highly competitive domestic landscape [33][34]. - The smartphone market is entering a phase of saturation, with increased competition from domestic brands targeting the high-end segment [34][35]. - The industry is also experiencing pressure in the foldable smartphone segment, with a 14% year-on-year decline in shipments in Q2 2025 [40]. AI Integration - The rise of AI smartphones is seen as a critical area for future growth, with Huawei aiming to innovate in this space, although it has yet to establish a leading position [41][46]. - The development of AI capabilities within HarmonyOS is part of Huawei's strategy to redefine user interaction and enhance the smartphone ecosystem [44][45].