TechDid the US just lose its AI advantage to China?

The United States has spent years trying to curb China’s technological rise by restricting its access to advanced chips and semiconductor technology. New trade figures, however, indicate that China’s AI-driven export engine is gaining speed. Trade in computing hardware linked to artificial intelligence rose by more than 56% in the first half of 2026, helping push exports of chips, electronics and advanced technology to record levels. The figures raise questions about whether US efforts to contain China’s AI sector are falling short, or whether China is simply benefiting from other forces.