In an era marked by geopolitical tensions and the race for technological sovereignty, this study explores the divergent strategies and policy instruments employed by the United States (US) and the...Show moreIn an era marked by geopolitical tensions and the race for technological sovereignty, this study explores the divergent strategies and policy instruments employed by the United States (US) and the European Union (EU) in strengthening their semiconductor industries. Despite being economic powerhouses, the U.S. and the EU hold only about 12 percent and 10 percent of the global semiconductor manufacturing market share, respectively. This comparative analysis delves into the nuanced policy frameworks based on the Developmental Network State (DNS) model of targeted resourcing, brokering, facilitation, and protection in shaping their semiconductor policy. This thesis aims to provide insights that extend beyond mere policy descriptions, intended to inform policymakers, industry stakeholders, and academic scholars to understand the strategic underpinnings that are influencing the global competitive semiconductor industry.Show less
The current digital age illustrates the importance of the semiconductor industry with particular attention on the dominance of South Korea and Taiwan within the semiconductor industry. This paper...Show moreThe current digital age illustrates the importance of the semiconductor industry with particular attention on the dominance of South Korea and Taiwan within the semiconductor industry. This paper will focus on global semiconductor industry leaders, Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) and Korean multinational company- Samsung, and how both companies became peripheral actors and maintained their key positions within the global semiconductor industry. The use of both qualitative and quantitative analysis will illustrate important data using charts (quantitative) to review Taiwan and South Korea's stronghold on the semiconductor industry. The case studies will be used to review how South Korea and Taiwan dominate the semiconductor industry. The thesis will also include a small section on how restrictions limit China's market share in this industry. Analysis of Samsung and TSMC companies illustrate how state intervention, company's approaches to technology innovation and organization of production, mainly specialization and localization led to their dominating success within the global semiconductor industry. This research paper portrays a clear overview as to why South Korea and Taiwan are key players in the semiconductor industry and why China is unable to reach its full potential. Samsung and TSMC portray how state involvement, shift towards high-technology industry, and cooperation between transnational companies allowed both countries to maintain their dominant position.Show less
