DeepSeek’s meteoric rise in the global tech arena has raised alarm in Western security circles. The Chinese AI chatbot, developed by a hedge fund-backed firm, is not only disrupting markets but also intensifying long-standing concerns about China’s increasing dominance in emerging technologies.
This is reminder that the rise of China’s technological prowess is not an accident but rather the result of decades of deliberate, state-backed investment in science, innovation and infrastructure. With over 6,000 STEM PhDs graduating each month and a massive patent filing rate, China is advancing rapidly in AI, microelectronics and clean tech with a clear ambition to dominate the next frontier of technological development.
The revelation that DeepSeek stores American user data on Chinese servers has led to discussion of security risks, prompting the U.S Navy to ban use of the chatbot. In the UK, while the risks are recognised, the government continues to try to balance security concerns and economic interests. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer’s spokesperson, Dave Pares, acknowledged the risks, saying that the UK has “very robust and secure” technology rules, and that government use of such devices is restricted.
However, No.10’s cautious stance, emphasising existing safeguards rather than announcing new measures, suggests a reluctance to take stronger action that could strain economic ties with China. This raises questions about whether current policies are enough to address the emerging threats.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle has confirmed that British security officials are reviewing DeepSeek’s potential risks, though the exact nature of the probe remains undisclosed. While the National Cyber Security Centre has not indicated involvement, its track record of assessing emerging technological threats suggests it may play a role.
This balancing act will be further tested by the upcoming visit of China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, to the UK in February How will Foreign Secretary David Lammy manage the diplomatic engagement while keeping national security interests at the forefront?
DeepSeek’s launch has also sparked debate in Washington about the effectiveness of U.S. export controls. While some commentators argue that the Chinese firm’s breakthrough proves the futility of restrictions, some members of Congress insist tighter regulations are needed to close loopholes and prevent further advances.
In a letter to National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, the Select Committee on the CCP urged Trump’s new administration to expand export controls on Nvidia’s H20 chip and prevent Chinese AI firms from gaining a foothold in the U.S. market, particularly in areas with critical national security implications. In the EU, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called for a renewed focus on breakthrough technologies to challenge China’s dominance in the AI sector.
The key question remains: Can Britain mitigate the risks without severing critical economic links?
