The Trump administration has released its AI Action Plan, outlining strategies to control AI technology and maintain US leadership in the global AI race. A key focus is restricting exports of AI equipment, particularly advanced chips, to China, addressing concerns that these technologies could bolster Chinese AI and military development. The plan tasks the Commerce Department with tightening export controls on chipmaking components, closing loopholes in existing restrictions. It also aims to monitor exported US chip end-users and explore chip location verification to prevent their use by 'countries of concern'.
To promote American AI, the plan encourages exports of 'full-stack AI export packages,' including hardware, software and related services. It also seeks to streamline data centre construction by easing environmental regulations and utilising federal land. The plan has faced criticism for lacking specific details and for its potential impact on international collaboration. Some experts suggest the US is attempting to unilaterally control AI governance rather than collaborating with allies.
Alongside the AI Action Plan, President Trump signed executive orders targeting 'woke' AI, streamlining data centre permits, and boosting American AI exports. These orders replace previous regulations from the Biden administration. The administration views AI development as a geopolitical imperative, emphasising the need to compete with China's investments in AI chips and data centres.
