Taiwan starts weaponizing chip access after US urged it to, expert says

The news article discusses Taiwan's efforts to leverage its semiconductor industry as a strategic tool in response to the United States' urging. According to an expert, Taiwan has started weaponizing its access to chip technology, giving South Africa 60 days to meet with Taiwan to avoid potential export curbs. The article highlights Taiwan's growing willingness to use its semiconductor capabilities as a bargaining chip in international relations. This move comes after the US government has encouraged Taiwan to take a more assertive stance in protecting its interests globally. The article suggests that Taiwan is now more proactively using its dominant position in the semiconductor industry to exert influence and potentially impose export restrictions on countries that do not align with its strategic priorities. This represents a shift in Taiwan's approach, as it seeks to leverage its technological advantage to advance its political and economic objectives. The article provides a concise overview of this development, focusing on the specific case of South Africa and the potential consequences if it fails to meet with Taiwan within the 60-day timeframe.