Chinese customs officials have blocked imports of Nvidia’s H200 artificial intelligence chips, prompting parts suppliers to pause production amid uncertainty, according to reports. The move comes despite the chips being cleared for export by the United States.
Sources say Chinese authorities warned domestic tech firms against buying the processors without explaining whether the restriction is temporary or a formal ban. The decision complicates an already tangled trade picture, as Washington approved sales but required the chips to pass through US testing facilities, triggering a 25% tariff. Analysts remain divided over whether allowing China access to the powerful chips is strategically wise.
