Nvidia H200 Chips Cleared for Export to China with Restrictions

The Trump administration on Tuesday approved the export of Nvidia’s H200 AI chips to China, marking a significant step in the international trade of advanced artificial intelligence technology. The decision comes with specific conditions aimed at addressing national security concerns and ensuring controlled deployment.

Under the new regulations, all H200 chips destined for China must undergo evaluation by a third-party testing laboratory to verify their technical AI capabilities before shipment. Additionally, China is restricted from purchasing more than 50% of the total H200 chips sold to U.S. customers, placing a cap on the quantity available to Chinese firms.

Analysts describe the export framework as a compromise, balancing commercial interests with security concerns, though some note that enforcing the rules may prove challenging. Critics of the decision have also raised concerns about the potential for these powerful AI chips to be used for military applications, sparking debate over the strategic implications of the move.

The approval is expected to accelerate shipments of Nvidia’s H200 chips to China, while maintaining oversight through third-party verification and sales limits, reflecting the administration’s attempt to carefully navigate the intersection of technology, trade, and national security.