Seoul, September 24, 2024
South Korea’s Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy convened a joint government-civilian meeting on September 24 to discuss potential responses to the United States’ proposed ban on the sale of connected cars using software and hardware from China and Russia. The meeting, held in Sejong, aimed to address the implications of the new US regulations on the domestic automotive industry and to formulate appropriate countermeasures.
The meeting was chaired by an official from the ministry’s manufacturing industry policy division, with participation from relevant figures within the domestic automotive sector. The attendees engaged in a thorough discussion on the potential impact of the US regulations on the South Korean industry and possible strategies to mitigate any adverse effects.
According to the South Korean Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy, industry experts believe that the scope of the US sanctions is narrower than initially anticipated and includes a transition period, which has helped alleviate some uncertainty. The industry is now focusing on conducting a meticulous analysis to develop comprehensive response strategies.
The South Korean government also plans to carefully review the US regulations and gather feedback from the industry. It will then convey its stance to the US to ensure that South Korean companies are not adversely affected by the new rules.
The proposed US regulations, as released by the Department of Commerce, would prohibit the sale of connected cars within the US that utilize software and hardware from China and Russia. The software ban is set to take effect in 2027, while the hardware ban is scheduled for 2030. The regulations are currently in a 30-day public comment period before they are finalized.
The move by the US is seen as part of a broader effort to counter the influence of China and Russia in the global technology sector, particularly in the rapidly growing field of connected and autonomous vehicles. South Korea, a major player in the automotive industry, is closely monitoring the situation to safeguard its interests.
The South Korean automotive industry is highly dependent on global supply chains, and the proposed US ban could have significant implications. However, industry experts note that the transition period provided by the US regulations offers a window of opportunity to adjust and find alternative solutions.
One of the key concerns raised during the meeting was the potential impact on South Korea’s export market. The country is a major exporter of vehicles and automotive components, and any restrictions on the use of Chinese and Russian software and hardware could disrupt existing supply chains and affect market competitiveness.
Despite the challenges, the South Korean government and industry representatives remain optimistic. They are confident that the country’s robust research and development capabilities, along with its strong collaboration with global partners, will enable it to navigate the changing landscape.
The meeting also highlighted the importance of diversifying supply chains and enhancing domestic capabilities to reduce reliance on foreign technology. This could involve investing in research and development to create homegrown software and hardware solutions that meet international standards.
In conclusion, the joint government-civilian meeting marked an important step in South Korea’s response to the US ban on China and Russia-origin software and hardware in connected cars. While the regulations pose significant challenges, the industry is preparing to adapt and find new ways to maintain its competitive edge in the global market.
Keywords: South Korea, US ban, connected cars, software, hardware, China, Russia, automotive industry, supply chains, research and development.
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