China Taps Nvidia’s H200 AI Chips in Strategic Import Shift
China Clears First Imports of Nvidia’s H200 AI Chips, Signaling Strategic ShiftJan. 28 —China has approved the import of its first batch of Nvidia’s advanced H200 artificial intelligence chips, according to two sources familiar with the matter, signaling a recalibration of Beijing’s approach as it balances growing AI demand with efforts to strengthen domestic chip development.
The approval, which covers several hundred thousand H200 chips, was granted during a visit to China this week by Nvidia Chief Executive Officer Jensen Huang, the sources said. They spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity surrounding the decision.
Initial allocations have reportedly been directed to three major Chinese internet companies, while other firms have begun lining up for subsequent approval rounds. The identities of the first recipients were not disclosed.
The move reflects China’s recognition of the immediate need for high-performance AI hardware, even as it continues to push for greater self-reliance in semiconductor technology.
China’s industry and commerce ministries, along with Nvidia, had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication.
