US sets conditional approval for Nvidia’s H200 exports to China

The Trump administration has formally authorised Nvidia to export its H200 AI chips to China, enabling shipments of the company’s second most powerful processors despite opposition from China hawks in Washington.

According to foreign press, under the new rules, a third-party lab must verify the chips’ capabilities before export, China cannot receive more than half the volume sold to US customers, and buyers must prove the chips will not be used for military purposes. Nvidia must also certify that the US retains sufficient inventory.

Nvidia welcomed the decision, saying it balances national security with US competitiveness. Critics argue the move could strengthen China’s AI sector and undermine US security, and analysts warn the export caps may be difficult to enforce.

Chinese firms have already ordered more than 2 million H200 chips—far exceeding Nvidia’s available supply—and demand is driving up rental prices globally. Former US officials say the decision could significantly boost China’s computing power.

The Biden administration previously blocked such sales, but Trump, backed by his AI adviser David Sacks, argues that controlled exports prevent Chinese rivals like Huawei from accelerating development. A US review of initial chip shipments to China is already underway.

By Tamilla Hasanova