As we all see for ourselves, China still is non committed towards the "independence push". I reserve my judgement of this apparent response of China (as time would tell ) but the reason why i think China is still non committed might have to do with export competitiveness of Chinese electronics in Global markets. As Xiaomi/ BBK/Transsion make up the biggest share of smartphone market in many regions, they all depend on Android ecosystem. Chip design aside, they can't really push for more technology liberation without getting pressured by a concerned Google, arm etc.
So China can't be independent ( in the sense you are implying) without engaging in a technology revolution of sorts. What i think can be done is to secure mainland technology independence and seek brisk but not rushed change.
I do not believe that China and Chinese companies should be "independent", but rather work in a state of reduced dependency and risk awareness and assessment.
-For example, they should be able to make chips on the oldest nodes (40nm +) using 100% Chinese equipment and software. In that way, they will groom a local semiconductor ecosystem without losing access to the cutting edge.
-They must use local alternatives and collaborate-invest in local suppliers as much as possible, they must be able to grow with them.
-Have a risk classification system for its suppliers.
-Companies such as Xiaomi, BBK, Huawei must create technological associations, to promote standards, technological interoperation, investment in R&D in areas of common ground such as Nanolithography, EDA, semiconductor IP, operating systems, compilers, open source technology, etc. . They are much stronger and more capable if they stick together.
-Increase cooperation and investment partnerships with Chinese universities and R&D institutions to accelerate development from laboratory to the market.
-They should not leave everything in the hands of the government because no matter how powerful the Chinese government is and how deep the government's pockets are, if there is little collaboration and will from the companies, most of the initiatives will go nowhere.
