Trump Claims China and Others Barred from Accessing Nvidia’s Advanced AI Chips

U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that Nvidia’s most advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chips, known as Blackwell chips, will be reserved exclusively for American companies, effectively barring China and other countries from accessing the technology. During a 60 Minutes interview and comments aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized that only U.S. customers would receive these cutting-edge semiconductors, highlighting the strategic importance of AI in maintaining national and technological security.

The move signals a potential tightening of U.S. export controls, exceeding previous guidance from officials. While Nvidia continues to supply other international markets, including South Korea, China’s access to the most sophisticated AI chips will be restricted, reflecting growing tensions between U.S. technological leadership and global competition.

U.S. Exclusive Access to Blackwell Chips

During a taped interview on CBS’ 60 Minutes and in remarks aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized that only U.S. customers would have access to Nvidia’s top-end Blackwell chips, produced by the world’s most valuable company by market capitalization.

“The most advanced, we will not let anybody have them other than the United States,” Trump told CBS. “We don’t give [the Blackwell chip] to other people,” he added during his flight from Florida to Washington.

This move indicates a potential tightening of U.S. export restrictions, barring China and possibly other countries from acquiring the most sophisticated semiconductors.

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Trump Administration’s AI Strategy

In July, the Trump administration released a new artificial intelligence blueprint aimed at maintaining U.S. leadership over China. The plan includes expanding AI exports to allies while easing certain environmental rules. This approach reflects Washington’s focus on ensuring American dominance in critical technology sectors.

International Supply Continues

Despite the new restrictions, Nvidia is continuing to supply Blackwell chips abroad. Last Friday, the company announced shipments of over 260,000 Blackwell AI chips to South Korea and major South Korean firms, including Samsung Electronics.

Trump clarified that while Chinese companies would not receive the most advanced Blackwell chips, a scaled-down version could still be an option.

“We will let them deal with Nvidia but not in terms of the most advanced,” he stated.

Concerns Over China’s AI Capabilities

The possibility of any Blackwell chips reaching China has drawn criticism from U.S. lawmakers and defense experts. Even a less powerful version could accelerate China’s AI development and enhance its military capabilities. Republican Congressman John Moolenaar, chair of the House Select Committee on China, warned that such sales “would be akin [to] giving Iran weapons-grade uranium.”

Trump previously suggested the chips could be discussed with Chinese President Xi Jinping ahead of a summit in South Korea, though the topic did not ultimately arise.

Nvidia’s Position on China

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang confirmed that the company has not sought U.S. export licenses for China, citing Beijing’s reluctance to allow Nvidia’s presence.

“They’ve made it very clear that they don’t want Nvidia to be there right now,” Huang said at a developer event. “We need access to China to fund U.S.-based research and development.”

Strategic Implications for U.S. AI Leadership

Nvidia’s Blackwell chips are central to AI development, powering machine learning, autonomous systems, and advanced computing. By restricting the most advanced chips to domestic use, the U.S. aims to maintain a competitive edge while minimizing the risk of empowering strategic competitors.

This decision aligns with broader Trump administration efforts to strengthen American technological leadership and safeguard national security interests.

While the future of scaled-down Blackwell chip exports to China remains uncertain, the move marks a significant step in controlling the global flow of advanced AI technology and ensuring U.S. dominance in critical sectors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Nvidia Blackwell AI chips?

Nvidia Blackwell chips are the company’s most advanced AI processors, designed for high-performance computing, machine learning, and autonomous systems.

Why is Trump restricting Nvidia’s Blackwell chips?

Trump aims to reserve the most advanced AI chips for U.S. companies to maintain technological leadership and limit China’s AI development.

Can China get any Nvidia chips?

While China cannot access the most advanced Blackwell chips, a scaled-down version may be allowed, though details remain uncertain.

How does this impact global AI development?

Restricting top-tier chips could slow China’s AI progress while reinforcing U.S. dominance in AI technology and semiconductor innovation.

Is Nvidia still selling chips internationally?

Yes, Nvidia continues international shipments, including over 260,000 Blackwell chips to South Korea and major companies like Samsung.

What do experts say about China accessing AI chips?

U.S. lawmakers warn that even less powerful chips could enhance China’s AI and military capabilities, raising national security concerns.

How does this relate to U.S.-China technology relations?

The restriction highlights tensions between maintaining U.S. tech leadership and managing trade, diplomacy, and global AI competition with China.

Conclusion

President Trump’s decision to restrict Nvidia’s most advanced Blackwell AI chips to U.S. companies underscores America’s commitment to maintaining a technological edge over China. While scaled-down versions may still reach Chinese firms, the move highlights the growing intersection of national security, global AI competition, and international trade. As AI technology continues to shape the future, controlling access to critical semiconductors will remain a key strategy in safeguarding U.S. innovation and strategic interests.