Nvidia plans to begin shipping its H200 AI chips to China by mid-February 2025, ahead of the Lunar New Year. Initial deliveries are expected to total 5,000–10,000 modules, equivalent to 40,000–80,000 chips. The move depends on Beijing’s approval, with future capacity expansion eyed for 2026.
Nvidia Corp is preparing to ship its advanced H200 artificial intelligence chips to Chinese clients by mid-February 2025, according to sources familiar with the matter. The shipments, timed before the Lunar New Year, will mark a significant development in the ongoing U.S.–China technology trade dynamics.
The H200, Nvidia’s second-most powerful AI chip, offers enhanced high-bandwidth memory compared to its predecessor, the H100, enabling faster data processing for AI workloads. Initial deliveries will be fulfilled from existing stock, with volumes estimated at 5,000–10,000 modules.
This equates to roughly 40,000–80,000 chips, underscoring strong demand from Chinese firms.
However, the plan remains contingent on regulatory clearance from Beijing. Nvidia has also informed clients that additional production capacity will be opened in the second quarter of 2026, reflecting long-term confidence in demand despite geopolitical uncertainties.
Key Highlights
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Shipments targeted for mid-February 2025, before Lunar New Year
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Initial deliveries: 5,000–10,000 modules (40,000–80,000 chips)
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H200 chip offers faster processing with expanded memory over H100
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Future production capacity expansion planned for Q2 2026
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Shipments contingent on Chinese government approval
Sources: Reuters