The global trade landscape is undergoing a shift, with some arguing it’s a move towards a multipolar world with barter-like systems emerging. This is exemplified by the curious case of HUAWEI selling beef products on its online store.
HUAWEI, a leading tech giant, faces crippling Western sanctions impacting its 5G equipment sales and high-end chip access. However, the company appears to be finding novel solutions. Recent reports from Chinese blogs highlight HUAWEI selling beef on its online Mossel Store.
This seemingly bizarre move becomes clear when considering speculation from Chinese citizens. The theory suggests HUAWEI might be using beef as a bartering mechanism for selling 5G equipment to countries like Argentina. This could be a way to bypass limitations imposed by sanctions.
A Multipolar Trade Landscape?
This situation points towards a potential shift in global trade dynamics. The traditional, dollar-centric system might be evolving into a multipolar one, with barter-like systems emerging in certain situations. This could be a consequence of growing geopolitical tensions.
Sanctions Impact, But Innovation Persists
While sanctions undoubtedly hinder HUAWEI, the company hasn’t stopped innovating. Despite TSMC’s Chairman suggesting it’s “impossible” for HUAWEI to keep up in the chip race, the company recently released a new phone with a homegrown 7nm chip. This showcases their ongoing efforts to overcome challenges.
Workarounds and Ethical Concerns
HUAWEI’s actions to circumvent sanctions raise ethical concerns. The recent severing of ties between Optica Foundation and HUAWEI highlights this. The foundation faced criticism for potentially channeling millions in prize money to US researchers through HUAWEI.
This situation highlights the complex interplay between sanctions, innovation, and ethical considerations in the evolving global trade landscape.
