China Pressures Nvidia Over H20 Chip Security Concerns

China’s state media is calling on Nvidia Corp. to provide assurances regarding the security of its H20 chips, stating that the country cannot permit the import of potentially flawed hardware.

This demand follows a meeting earlier this week where China’s top internet watchdog, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), summoned Nvidia representatives. During the discussion, Chinese officials reportedly highlighted “significant security vulnerabilities” within the H20 chip.

The CAC has stipulated that Nvidia must explain any potential security risks associated with the H20 and furnish all necessary documentation. Notably, the Chinese regulator cited remarks by US lawmakers concerning the need to incorporate tracking capabilities into advanced chips designated for export. This suggests Beijing’s concerns may stem from a perception of potential foreign surveillance or backdoors in critical technology.

The move underscores China’s increasing scrutiny of imported technology, particularly advanced semiconductors, amid ongoing global tensions regarding supply chain security and data integrity.