US Launches Review of Nvidia H200 AI Chip Sales to China

The US presidential administration officially initiated a 30-day interagency review of export applications for advanced Nvidia H200 accelerators to China on December 19, 2025. According to Reuters, citing government sources, the review aims to assess national security risks and the potential use of these capabilities for the PRC's military needs. This decision halts potential multi-billion dollar shipments previously negotiated between Nvidia and major Chinese tech giants.

The review is being conducted by the Department of Commerce with the participation of intelligence agencies. Particular attention will be paid to how effectively Nvidia has implemented access control and performance limitation mechanisms for Chinese versions of its chips. This event underscores the ongoing tension in the "chip war" and casts doubt on recent signals of a possible warming in trade relations. The outcome of the review will determine whether Nvidia can maintain its dominance in the Chinese market under strict sanction pressure.

Source: Reuters