China's Approval of AI Chips Marks a Shift in US-China Relations

Wednesday, 28 January 2026, 17:21

AI chips are now moving freely again as China approves imports of Nvidia's H200 chips for leading tech firms. This decision signifies a balancing act in US-China relations regarding AI infrastructure. In a pivotal shift, ByteDance, Alibaba, and Tencent have gained access to crucial technology amid ongoing trade tensions. The approval showcases China's strategy to bolster its technology sector while navigating external pressures.
Arstechnica
China's Approval of AI Chips Marks a Shift in US-China Relations

AI Chips Critical for Tech Giants

China has given the green light for the import of Nvidia's H200 AI chips, crucial for powering advanced technologies. The shipment is set to deliver over 400,000 H200 chips to major players like ByteDance, Alibaba, and Tencent.

A Balancing Act

  • China's Decision: This approval follows weeks of uncertainty regarding US export clearances.
  • Market Impact: With demand soaring, China's tech giants had ordered more than two million chips.
  • Performance Leap: The H200 chips offer six times the performance of the previous H20 model, making them essential for machine learning applications.

Future of AI Infrastructure in China

While domestic competitors like Huawei are making strides, they still trail behind in technology capabilities compared to Nvidia's offerings. This scenario will be pivotal as China seeks self-reliance in AI and semiconductors while managing its relationship with the US.


This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.


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