Nvidia H200 chips reached US-blacklisted Chinese university despite restrictions. Why it matters

Northwestern Polytechnical University, part of China's Seven Sons of National Defense group, acquired two high-performance Nvidia H200 AI chips in October 2022 despite being blacklisted by the United States, according to procurement records. This purchase highlights potential weaknesses in Washington's efforts to control China's access to advanced technology.

The university, known for its research in military aircraft, missiles, and satellites, bought the chips from a Shaanxi-based company, rather than directly from Nvidia. H200 chips are among the most capable processors for training and running advanced AI systems and are subject to US export licence approvals. The university also rented access to Nvidia-powered computing services through five contracts with domestic suppliers.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, who has lobbied for looser restrictions on AI chip sales to China, might face scrutiny following accusations of a Chinese spying operation. US lawmakers have urged stronger controls on China's access to advanced AI chips, including tracking requirements and greater congressional oversight of exports.