The USA has decided to limit the export of advanced AI computer chips to Switzerland. These chips are widely used in research and by companies in Switzerland. Guy Parmelin, a Federal Councillor, explained in an interview with NZZ am Sonntag that Switzerland is now in a lower group for receiving these chips. While imports will continue, they will be restricted.
Parmelin criticized this decision, calling it “hard to understand.” He pointed out that Swiss institutions like the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH) use these chips for innovations that benefit the USA. He suggested this restriction could backfire on America.
Discussions between Switzerland and the USA are ongoing. Switzerland hopes to be included in the group of 18 trusted allies with full access, which includes countries like Germany, France, and Japan. For now, the USA says the restrictions aim to prevent rival countries like China from acquiring this technology.
The chips are exclusively made by US companies, and the US wants to stop countries like China from bypassing restrictions by creating foreign subsidiaries.
In related news, former US President Donald Trump announced opposition to a global minimum tax. Parmelin warned this could impact Switzerland’s government, cantons, and companies, but added that Switzerland might adapt if international rules change.
Source: bluewin
