US lawmakers push to further limit China’s access to Nvidia chips

Two U.S. lawmakers have called on the Trump administration to consider new restrictions on Nvidia AI chip exports to China, specifically targeting their use by Chinese AI firm DeepSeek.

Key developments; Representatives John Moolenaar (R) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (D) are leading a bipartisan effort to scrutinize AI chip exports to China through the House Select Committee on China.

• The lawmakers specifically highlighted concerns about Nvidia’s H20 chip, which currently falls outside U.S. export control restrictions
• Their request is part of a broader Commerce and State Department review of the U.S. export control system
• The lawmakers claim DeepSeek has made “extensive use” of Nvidia’s H20 chip in its recently released AI model

Congressional response; The U.S. House of Representatives has taken immediate action regarding DeepSeek’s AI tools.

• The House Chief Administrative Officer has issued a notice prohibiting congressional offices from using DeepSeek
• DeepSeek is currently under review and unauthorized for official House use

Market implications; DeepSeek’s recent technological achievements have heightened concerns about China’s AI advancement.

• The company recently launched a free AI assistant that reportedly operates more efficiently than competitors
• DeepSeek’s ability to develop sophisticated AI models at lower costs has raised alarms about reduced barriers to entry in advanced AI development

National security context; U.S. officials are increasingly concerned about potential military and security applications of AI technology in China.

• There are specific fears about China potentially using AI for cyber attacks or bioweapon development
• These concerns follow earlier restrictions implemented during the Biden administration to limit China’s access to AI chips and manufacturing tools

Industry response; Nvidia has maintained a cooperative stance while defending its compliance record.

• The company stated its products comply with all government requirements
• Nvidia expressed willingness to work with the Trump administration on AI policy
• DeepSeek and the White House have not yet responded to requests for comment

Looking ahead; The scrutiny of H20 chips represents a critical juncture in U.S.-China technological competition, highlighting the challenge of balancing commercial interests with national security concerns. The Trump administration’s upcoming decision on additional export controls could significantly impact the global AI chip market and U.S.-China tech relations.