Nvidia's H200 chips remain stalled in China despite US green light

Published: 2026-04-22 13:21:42 ET NVDA

Nvidia's H200 artificial intelligence chips have yet to be marketed to Chinese firms, despite the authorization granted in January by the Donald Trump administration. During a Senate hearing, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said that sales remain suspended due to bottlenecks on the Chinese side, as authorities have yet to clear the acquisitions. Beijing is reportedly seeking to prioritize the development of its domestic industry in this strategic sector.

Esteban Tesson

Published on 04/22/2026 at 01:21 pm EDT

This situation unfolds against a backdrop of persistent tensions between the United States and China over sensitive technologies. The hesitations surrounding chip exports may reassure certain US officials concerned about the potential military application of such equipment by China. Disagreements also persist regarding transaction terms, further slowing implementation despite the authorized framework.The case illustrates the complexity of trade relations between the two superpowers. Howard Lutnick cautiously addressed the possible reinstatement of the "affiliates rule," a regulation suspended in November as part of bilateral negotiations. He reiterated that these decisions are part of a global balance managed by the US President and his economic team, highlighting the sensitivity and strategic stakes of these exchanges.