Artificial intelligence chips giant Nvidia (NVDA)It is once again at the center of geopolitical tension. Despite U.S. efforts to restrict advanced semiconductor exports to China, valued at more than $1 billion B200 processor He reportedly reached China illegally. This highlights the complex supply chains that transcend Washington's technology oversight and the systemic risks posed by illicit trade.

On Thursday The Financial Times According to the comprehensive report released by, these shipments were initiated by former President Donald Trump and expanded under Joe Biden export control policies It happened though. specifically Within three months of the Trump-era bans taking effect The B200 processors were shipped to China.

Most Wanted Chip in China's Black Market: B200

Nvidia's B200 chip is used for tasks that require high processing power, such as AI training and large language model operations. The United States had severely restricted exports of such chips, concerned that it would strengthen China's military and intelligence capabilities. However, according to the report, Guangdong, Zhejiang and Anhui Distributors operating in Chinese provinces such as sold the B200 on the black market along with the restricted H100 and H200 chips.

These chips, which the United States has officially banned, Chinese AI startups and data center providers It was in high demand by. Distributors to circumvent US regulations Through third countries such as Malaysia and Thailand carried out the import of chips. Through “intermediate transfers” in these regions, the embargo is being pierced and Nvidia chips are being shipped to China.

Legal Gray Area: Whose Fault?

US regulations prohibit the sale of these chips directly to China. But in some cases, the use or trade of these chips within China is not technically illegal, as long as appropriate import tariffs are paid. Therefore, parties selling or shipping chips to China In violation of US law; buyers are generally exempt from liability at the local level. This gray area indicates that there are serious gaps in the application of technological sanctions.

US Reaction: Restrictions on Malaysia and Thailand on the Agenda

Following these developments, U.S. Department of Commerce Even Nvidia's “China-specific” designed chips like the H20 in early July being routed to China via third countries detected. Washington, to cut off this flow of contraband New export restrictions on Malaysia and Thailand He considers bringing it.

But despite all these measures, Nvidia's advanced chips continue to reach China. This is the case, not only in Nvidia specifically, but in general Limits of U.S. ability to control high-tech exports also reveals.

Critical Remarks by Jensen Huang and Visit to China

The CEO of Nvidia in the past week Jensen Huang, which the US administration developed the company specifically for China It will allow the resale of H20 chips explained. This statement was perceived as an important softening signal for both investors and the Chinese market.

Huang's recent visit to China To be greeted like a rock star appeared in the headlines. The visit was seen as an indication that Nvidia maintains its commitment to the Chinese market while technological tension on the Washington—Beijing line continues.

Strategic Commentary: Technology, Trade's New Battleground

This event shows how much the global technology war has deepened, and AI hardware is no longer just commercial, It has become a geopolitical weapon reveals. The actual puncture of the sanctions imposed by the United States also reveals China's steadfast demand and its strategy of “access technology at any cost” in this area.

From the perspective of investors, this development is risk of regulation as well The power of demand It hosts it at the same time. While it is possible that Nvidia will face more scrutiny in the short term, the deep demand in the Chinese market and the need for artificial intelligence infrastructure will continue to be a strategic source of growth for the company.