In a recent press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun applauded the South African government’s resolute move to relocate a Taiwan institution from Pretoria. He framed the decision as a testament to shared commitment on the one-China principle and smoother international ties.
Guo highlighted that Taiwan authorities attempted to weaponize semiconductors by imposing export restrictions on South Africa—a tactic he warned would destabilize global chip industrial and supply chains. “Such political manipulation will only end in failure,” he said.
Backing up his point with hard data, Guo noted that the Chinese mainland’s chip industry now accounts for about 28 percent of the global market. South African customs figures show that in 2024, chip exports from the Chinese mainland to South Africa were three times higher than those from the Taiwan region.
For entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts tracking the semiconductor race, these statistics signal a shifting landscape. China’s growing capacity offers new sourcing options, even as companies navigate geopolitical headwinds and supply chain uncertainties.
Looking ahead, China said it is ready to deepen cooperation with South Africa across multiple fields, with semiconductors topping the agenda. Both partners aim to leverage their strengths, drive innovation, and build an all-round strategic cooperative partnership in the new era.
For young global citizens and business leaders, this episode underscores how technology and diplomacy continue to intersect on the world stage. Stay tuned as China-South Africa ties evolve amid the heat of the chip wars.
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China appreciates South Africa's move to relocate Taiwan institution
cgtn.com
