US Approves Nvidia H200 Chip Exports to China Under Strict New Conditions

The US has cleared Nvidia to export H200 AI chips to China under tight controls, including third-party inspections, supply caps, and security guarantees, as Washington seeks to balance economic interests with national security.

Web Desk | January 14, 2026

The United States has formally approved Nvidia to resume exports of its H200 artificial intelligence chips to China, introducing a new regulatory framework aimed at limiting national security risks while preserving commercial competitiveness.

The decision marks a shift in Washington’s approach after months of blocking the sale of Nvidia’s second-most powerful AI processors over concerns that the technology could strengthen China’s military and advanced surveillance capabilities.

Under the new rules, every H200 shipment must pass inspection by an independent third-party testing laboratory to verify its technical specifications before export. In addition, shipments to Chinese buyers are capped at no more than 50 percent of the volume sold to US customers, ensuring domestic supply remains protected.

Nvidia is also required to certify that sufficient inventory remains available inside the United States. Chinese buyers must demonstrate strict security procedures and confirm the chips will not be used for military purposes.

The approval follows President Donald Trump’s earlier decision to allow limited H200 sales to approved Chinese customers in exchange for a 25 percent surcharge.

Nvidia welcomed the move, calling it a balanced policy that supports American jobs and global competitiveness. The company said the framework allows US firms to compete while protecting national interests.

Analysts remain divided. Jay Goldberg of Seaport Research warned the export caps could prove difficult to enforce, noting that Chinese firms have previously found alternative ways to access restricted chips.

Former White House technology adviser Saif Khan said the policy could significantly expand China’s AI computing capacity and create enforcement challenges around customer verification.

China’s embassy in Washington has not yet issued an official response. Chinese authorities have reportedly told some domestic firms that H200 purchases may be allowed under special circumstances such as university research and development projects, though formal guidance remains unclear.

The approval comes as Chinese companies have reportedly placed orders exceeding two million H200 units, far above Nvidia’s current inventory levels, highlighting the intense demand for advanced AI hardware.