The administration of the cyberspace of China (CAC) has ordered To the main technological companies of the country, including Bytedance and Alibaba, to stop buying and testing the Nvidia artificial intelligence chips specifically designed for the Chinese market. This is another episode in the arduous Commercial War between the United States and Chinaa hardening caused by Beijing’s strategy to reduce its dependence on American technology.
What happened. The Chinese regulator has banned the purchase of the RTX PRO 6000D, the most recent Nvidia chip adapted to the local market, forcing companies to cancel their orders and stop the evidence that had already begun. According to Financial Timesseveral companies had expressed their intention to acquire tens of thousands of units before receiving the approval from the government.
Why now. Chinese regulators have concluded that semiconductors developed by national companies Like Huawei and change They already reach comparable performance or superior to the products that Nvidia exports to China. This evaluation has led the authorities to bet on local industry.
Even more restrictive regulation. This prohibition goes one step further than the previous guidelines, which focused on advising the purchase of H20, the previous Nvidia model for China. The current measure is a direct order that leaves no room for maneuver to Chinese technology companies.
The Nvidia reaction. Jensen Huang, CEO of the American company, It has been shown “disappointed” but comprehensive with the situation. “We can only be at the service of a market if the country wishes,” he said during his visit to London, where he accompanies Donald Trump on his tour of the United Kingdom.
The geopolitical context. The tension comes from afar. The United States initially prohibited Nvidia Sell your most advanced chips To China, which led the company to develop specific versions for the Chinese market. In July, Washington partially flexible these restrictionsbut established that Nvidia must pay 15% of the income she obtains from China to the US government.
Between the lines. “The message is now high and clear. Before, a new Nvidia supply was expected if the geopolitical situation improved. Now everyone is hands to work to build the national system,” assured the executive of a technological company to the Financial Times. From the comings and disagreements between China and the United States, both countries have found a kind of Technological self -sufficiency. In the case of China, this has been another step towards this strategy promoted by Beijing.
Bet on national chips. China seeks to triple its production of IA processors next year, according to information of the Financial Times. The commitment to national semiconductors is part of a broader strategy To compete with the United States in the career of artificial intelligence and reduce its vulnerability to future commercial restrictions. For Nvidia this implies the loss of a key market in a moment of maximum growth of the sector.
Cover image | Nvidia and Arthur Wang
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