The Department of Regional and International Political Studies at the Center for Strategic and International Studies – University of Baghdad organized a scientific workshop entitled “Semiconductor Manufacturing in U.S.–China Competition,” with participation from researchers and academics specializing in international relations and the political economy of technology.
During the workshop, Assistant Lecturer Riyadh M. Khalbas discussed global developments in semiconductor manufacturing and their role in intensifying geopolitical competition between the United States and China, emphasizing semiconductors as a critical component of national security and international balance.
The discussion also examined global semiconductor supply chains and the role of major companies such as TSMC, ASML, Intel, and SMIC. Assistant Lecturer Khalbas analyzed U.S. policies designed to limit China’s progress in artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing, alongside Beijing’s efforts to achieve self-sufficiency in this strategic sector.
The workshop further explored the implications of this competition for the global economy and the Middle East, particularly Iraq, in the context of accelerating digital transformation and emerging investment opportunities in technology industries.
At the conclusion of the workshop, participants highlighted the importance of supporting Iraqi scientific research in advanced technologies and strengthening academic cooperation with international centers, to remain aligned with global developments in semiconductors, data security, and digital transformation.
