Nvidia CEO Defends China Chip Exports, Dismisses Military Concerns

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has once again addressed concerns regarding the company's chip exports to China. He dismissed claims that Nvidia's technologies could be used to enhance Chinese military capabilities. These comments were made during a recent CNN interview, which aired before Huang's planned trip to China. During this trip, he is expected to hold a media briefing in Beijing.

In response to concerns that Nvidia chips might enhance weapons used by Chinese military and intelligence agencies, Huang stated that China already possesses significant computing capacity. He emphasized that China does not require Nvidia chips or American technology to build its military.

Huang also expressed his opposition to ongoing export restrictions on advanced chips. He argued that such controls could ultimately hinder the development of US technology. He warned that preventing Chinese AI developers from using Nvidia products could encourage them to develop independent alternatives, rather than relying on US systems. He believes that the American tech stack should be the global standard and that this requires engaging with AI developers worldwide, including those in China. He noted that China has a significant presence in the AI field.

Huang also challenged the notion that Chinese-trained AI models inherently pose risks. He cited the DeepSeek R1 model as an example, stating that there is no evidence that it is dangerous simply because it was trained in China. He described the technology itself as "incredible."

Concluding the interview, Huang echoed Bill Gates' view that bans on China have spurred the country to develop its own industry, describing the bans as "counterproductive." He reiterated his long-standing opposition to US chip export controls. He stated that while the US and China are competitors, they are also highly interdependent. He believes that it is acceptable to respect competitors, as they are not doing anything that the US does not aspire to do for itself.

Huang's remarks come as US tech engagement with China faces increased scrutiny. A bipartisan group of US senators sent a letter to Huang about his China trip, urging him to avoid meetings with firms linked to military or intelligence bodies in China, or those listed on the US export restrictions list. Since 2022, the US has placed tight restrictions on Nvidia's most advanced chip exports to China, citing concerns over potential military applications. The US government also expanded the ban earlier this year to include sales of Nvidia's H20 AI chips. Nvidia is reportedly working on another chip that complies with the latest export controls. Huang has previously voiced his opposition to the US restrictions on chip exports to China on multiple occasions.