Chokepoint Politics: China's export Controls in the Era of Great Power Rivalry

China is increasingly using export controls as a geopolitical instrument—shifting from industrial to strategic motivations. This whitepaper by Sinolytics experts Dr. Jost Wübbeke and Martin Catarata explores how these controls are reshaping global supply chains and affecting industries worldwide.

Key Takeaways include:

• China is strategically using export controls as a geopolitical tool, shifting from mostly economic and industrial policy motivations to national security-driven policies. These controls are now central to its efforts to exercise geopolitical leverage over other countries.
• Export controls have expanded from raw materials to advanced technologies, including dual-use goods and manufacturing know-how. China aims to exert pressure by weaponizing supply chains, while at the same time making sure that it can maintain its role as central node in global value chains.
• The impact of China’s export controls extends far beyond the U.S., affecting global industries and economies. European, Japanese, and South Korean companies have faced delays, shortages, and increased costs, highlighting the global collateral damage of these policies.
• Future export control expansions are likely and will target chokepoints where China holds dominance, especially in battery materials, advanced electronics, and clean energy technologies.