AI and the geopolitics of compute
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to advance, the hardware that underpins it, particularly chips and compute, has become central to global competition and cooperation. This session will explore how access to advanced semiconductors shapes AI progress and influences the balance of power among nations. Janet Egan will share insights into the evolving landscape of export controls and the intensifying US–China competition over compute, drawing from her experience at the intersection of AI and security policy. She will also provide context on how these forces are influencing policy debates and investment decisions in Washington, DC and beyond.
The discussion will open space to consider how these global dynamics shape the choices facing governments, research institutions and industries that depend on reliable access to compute. Participants will be invited to reflect on the practical and strategic implications for capability, collaboration and resilience at a time when compute itself is becoming central to geopolitics.
Janet Egan is a Senior Fellow and Deputy Director of the Technology and National Security Program at the Center for a New American Security (CNAS). Her research focuses on the national security implications of AI and emerging technologies, particularly compute policy. Prior to CNAS, she held senior roles in the Australian Government, including in the Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet. She has led policy on issues spanning supply chain resilience, cybersecurity, foreign investment, and critical technologies.
Afeeya Akhand is an Emerging Associate, ANU National Security College and will provide comments on the topic from the perspective of South Korea and the region.
AI CoLab events are intentionally open and collaborative. For this session we may capture photos to share publicly. This is done in line with the Charter’s values; transparent, ethical innovation and knowledge sharing to accelerate collective learning (see join.aicolab.org). By participating in this event, you agree to being photographed and for those images to be shared in accordance with this policy.