Global Chip Supply Chain Disruptions

China’s Ministry of Commerce has warned of further disruption to the global semiconductor supply chain after Dutch chipmaker Nexperia cut access to some of its systems for Chinese staff. Nexperia makes chips that are in demand for automotive applications, among others.

Impact on the Semiconductor Supply Chain

The company’s Dutch parent company cut off access to SAP and Microsoft 365 for all Chinese employees, making it impossible to process new orders. However, Nexperia China said it was able to conduct “basic production operations” and was trying to avoid disruption to production and delivery.

Meanwhile, Indonesia has announced a ban on social media for children aged 16 or under, citing the threat of cyberbullying and the risk of addiction. The ban comes into force from March 28th and will impact YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, X, Bigo Live, and Roblox.

China’s Concerns About AI’s Jobs Impact

China’s Minister of Human Resources and Social Security Wang Xiaoping said the nation’s government is mulling measures to actively harness AI in creating new job opportunities and empowering traditional jobs. However, a report quoted Wang as saying “Currently, artificial intelligence is developing rapidly, which has a profound impact on employment,” and describing the situation as “of great concern to everyone.”

Additionally, India’s PC sales remain tiny, with vendors shipping 15.9 million PCs in India last year. Vietnam has announced the creation of a national AI fund to establish AI cluster hubs at high-tech parks, concentrated digital technology zones, and innovation centers.