Chinese AI startup DeepSeek has received conditional approval from authorities to buy Nvidia’s H200 artificial intelligence chips. The purchase is allowed to move forward, but specific regulatory conditions have not yet been made public.
Regulatory approval process
China’s approval was granted after review by government agencies responsible for technology and economic planning. While the decision clears the way for the transaction, final requirements are still being finalized. Officials have not disclosed the full list of conditions attached to the approval.
Connection to export controls
The decision follows earlier clearance by U.S. regulators that allowed Nvidia to export the H200 chips to China. Even with U.S. approval, Chinese authorities retain the final say over whether companies can import the hardware. The process reflects the layered regulatory environment surrounding advanced AI chips.
About DeepSeek
DeepSeek is a China-based artificial intelligence company focused on large language models and AI research. Access to high-performance computing hardware is important for training and running advanced models. The planned purchase would expand DeepSeek’s computing capacity.
Industry context
High-end AI chips remain in high demand as companies race to develop more powerful models. Regulatory approvals in both the U.S. and China play a significant role in shaping access to this hardware. Similar approvals have reportedly been granted to other Chinese technology firms.
Geopolitical backdrop
Advanced AI processors like Nvidia’s H200 have become part of broader U.S.–China technology tensions. Governments on both sides continue to balance economic interests with security concerns when regulating chip exports and imports.
Conclusion
DeepSeek’s planned purchase of Nvidia H200 chips has cleared a key regulatory step in China, though final conditions are still pending. The outcome highlights the complex approval process surrounding advanced AI hardware in a closely regulated global market.