The White House released an AI Action Plan and an Executive Order promoting export of the American AI technology stack. Chinese startup DeepSeek launched a highly capable open-source AI model that undercut confidence in U.S. AI superiority. Most countries prioritize AI that meets basic needs, integrates with existing systems, and offers simple, turn-key deployment rather than frontier sophistication. China can deliver those practical solutions and gain market share across dozens of countries. U.S. success requires a full-stack strategy that includes subsea cables, data centers, telecommunications, and satellites. Policymakers must shift resources toward becoming a one-stop-shop for digital infrastructure.
Taken together, the White House's approach doubles down on a "race to achieve global dominance in artificial intelligence," while recognizing that to win this race we need broad global adoption of U.S. AI technology. But it appears the United States has not fully absorbed the lesson of DeepSeek for global technology competition. Leading U.S. AI companies continue to tout their superior sophistication.
But during my time at the White House and State Department promoting U.S. cyber and tech abroad, I observed that most countries aren't looking for the world's most advanced AI. They want AI that's good enough to meet basic needs and is compatible with their existing systems. They're looking for simple, turn-key solutions. DeepSeek allows China to provide that - and edge out American companies in dozens of countries.
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