Chinese Customs Halt Entry of Nvidia’s H200 AI Chips, Forcing Suppliers to Suspend Production
Suppliers of components for Nvidia’s H200 chips have temporarily suspended production after Chinese customs authorities blocked shipments of the advanced processor designed for artificial intelligence applications from entering the country.
According to available information, Nvidia had been expecting to receive more than one million orders from Chinese customers, prompting its suppliers to operate around the clock in preparation for shipments scheduled to begin in March. However, directives issued this week by Chinese customs confirmed that H200 chips will not be permitted to enter the domestic market.
Sources familiar with the matter said that Chinese government officials have summoned local technology companies and warned them against purchasing the chips except in cases of absolute necessity. No official explanation has been provided regarding the nature of the decision, nor whether it represents a permanent ban or a temporary measure.
The H200 processor is Nvidia’s second most powerful AI chip and has become one of the central points of tension in the ongoing technological rivalry between the United States and China. Strong demand from Chinese firms contrasts with uncertainty surrounding Beijing’s official stance — whether the move is intended to restrict imports, support domestic chipmakers, or serve as a bargaining tool in negotiations with Washington.