In a recent statement, British finance minister Jeremy Hunt warned against the temptation for Western countries and their allies to put up protectionist trade barriers in an attempt to gain an edge in technology. According to Hunt, such actions would risk a new Dark Age.

What is tech protectionism?

It refers to government actions and policies that restrict or restrain international trade in the technology sector, often with the intent of protecting local tech businesses and jobs from foreign competition. This can be done through various means such as tariffs, subsidies, import quotas, or other restrictions or handicaps placed on the imports of foreign competitors.

Hunt’s warning comes at a time when tensions between major global powers are high and the race for technological dominance is heating up. Many countries are investing heavily in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing in an effort to gain a competitive advantage.

However, Hunt argues that protectionism is not the answer. Instead, he believes that countries should work together to create a level playing field and foster innovation through collaboration and open markets.

It remains to be seen how Hunt’s warning will be received by other global leaders and whether it will have any impact on the current trend towards tech protectionism. But one thing is clear: the stakes are high and the decisions made now will have far-reaching consequences for the future of technology and global relations.