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New restrictions on exports
The United States has put into effect new rules that will limit the export of most artificial intelligence (AI) chips to China. These rules build upon a set of restrictions put in place in October 2022.
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Nvidia’s AI chips affected
Nvidia, a prominent AI chip manufacturer, will be directly impacted by these new restrictions. The company’s sought-after AI chips, such as the H100, have proven to be highly profitable, with a valuation exceeding $1 trillion. Last year’s restrictions already prevented Nvidia from selling the H100 to China, leading the company to introduce a lower-specced H800 chip to bypass the US rules. However, with the new regulations, both the H800 and A800 chips will now be off-limits for sale to China.
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Department of Commerce’s reasoning
The Department of Commerce states that these new restrictions are necessary to close loopholes, maintain the effectiveness of existing controls, and ensure their durability. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo emphasized that the updated rules will enhance control effectiveness and prevent evasion of restrictions, particularly in the context of the military-civil fusion strategy of the Chinese government.
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Impact on the semiconductor industry
Chips designed for AI applications are in high demand as companies continue to invest heavily in new AI hardware and software products. Both Nvidia and Intel, another major chip manufacturer, are assessing the potential impact of these restrictions on their businesses. While Nvidia expressed confidence in its ability to comply with regulations and minimize financial impact, Intel is still reviewing the rules. AMD has not yet provided a comment on the matter.
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Semiconductor Industry Association’s response
The Semiconductor Industry Association acknowledges the need to protect national security but raises concerns about the potential harm to the US semiconductor ecosystem and the risk of pushing overseas customers to seek alternatives. The association urges the US administration to strengthen coordination with allies to ensure a level playing field for all companies.
China’s response
In response to the new rules, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning criticized the US for politicizing and weaponizing trade and tech issues. China is closely monitoring the developments and vows to safeguard its rights and interests.
Apple CEO’s visit
The announcement of the new rules coincided with Apple CEO Tim Cook’s recent visit to a Chinese Apple Store, where a tournament for the popular Tencent mobile game Honor of Kings was taking place. Cook shared a short video of the visit on his Weibo account.
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