US Commerce Department Approves Nvidia’s H20 Chip Exports to China After White House Lobbying

The US Commerce Department has begun issuing licenses to Nvidia for exporting its H20 AI chips to China, ending weeks of regulatory limbo. The decision follows direct lobbying by CEO Jensen Huang, who met twice with President Donald Trump to advocate for the exports.

Initially blocked in April by the TRUMP administration, the H20 chip—a downgraded variant designed specifically for the Chinese market—sparked debate among security officials. Critics argue the technology could enhance China's military capabilities, while Nvidia maintains that restrictions risk ceding market share to domestic competitors.

Licensing approvals commenced just two days after Huang's most recent Oval Office meeting, underscoring the political dimensions of the decision. Neither Nvidia nor the Commerce Department provided official comment on the developments.