The rivalry for a relevant position has existed throughout history. Today, powers such as China, the United States, Korea, and even old Europe are struggling to reach the top of the technological podium in order to achieve some form of dominance over the adversaries.
In this scenario of almost fierce competition there is no lack of practices that may not be 100% legitimate. In the specific case of the United States and China, the fight and mutual distrust reach unheard of dimensions.
The rivalry for a relevant position has existed throughout history. Being the most suitable, the first, the most agile, the strongest or the most intelligent has been part of the natural selection that led to the survival of the species.
This struggle is still alive today. However, the objective is another: to be at the top of the technological podium in order to achieve some form of dominance over their adversary.
Powers such as China, the United States, Korea, and even old Europe are battling for their companies and institutions to lead the ranking as suppliers of the most innovative technology. Not surprisingly, getting the name of a certain country to dominate the “Made in…” seal has become a challenge, which no State wants or can give up.
In this scenario of almost fierce competition, there is no lack of practices that may not be 100% legitimate. In the specific case of the United States and China, the fight and mutual distrust reach unheard-of dimensions. Accusations of industrial espionage and unfair competition, revision of tariffs and other restrictions to the free trade, blacklists, complaints of threats to national security are sadly common currency and source of numerous conflicts.
Programs, strategies and bureaucracy
Everyone wants to be the world champion of innovation and play their cards. In this context, with its protectionist measures, the US is dealing a heavy blow to globalization, promoting mutual distrust between regions.
In order to strengthen its position in the booming global technology market, and thus stand up to its most stubborn rival, China has launched a program that, known as Made in China 2025, aims to deploy a series of own competencies that allow it to act independently in industries such as telecommunications (5G), robotics or artificial intelligence.
Meanwhile, Europe's current role in technological development remains highly discreet. After a few years in which European companies shone with their own light in the development, for example, of telecommunications networks by multinationals such as Nokia, Siemens, Alcatel or Ericsson, the situation is now completely different, running the risk of becoming the loser of the race for innovation and digitization. Experts point to slow and excessive bureaucracy as the factors that would make Europe a mere observer in a scenario as competitive as decisive.
Supporting innovation must be everyone's business, and if the purpose really is to reach the Global Village with which Marshall McLuhan made us dream of, the general slogan would be for everyone to row in the same direction, and ensure that innovation reaches every corner of the planet.