Nvidia’s H200 chips can be shipped to China again, but only after inspection by a test lab.
The US government has given permission for the export of Nvidia’s H200-AI chips to China, Reuters reports. The decision comes quite unexpectedly after previous export restrictions.
Strict conditions for export
According to the new rules, the H200 chips may only be shipped to China after inspection by an independent test lab, which must confirm the AI capabilities. In addition, China may not receive more than 50 percent of the number of H200 chips sold to American customers. Nvidia must demonstrate that sufficient stock remains available in the US, and Chinese customers must prove that the chips are not used for military applications and that their security procedures are correct.
Political controversy
President Donald Trump announced last month that he would allow the export in exchange for a 25 percent levy in favor of the American government. However, critics within both political camps warn that the measure could strengthen China’s AI capabilities and will be difficult to enforce.
Chinese technology companies have reportedly already placed orders for more than two million H200 chips, while Nvidia currently has a much smaller supply. The decision may therefore not only have geopolitical consequences, but also put further pressure on the already strained global market for advanced AI hardware.