Biden and Nvidia discuss limited AI chip sales to China

The Biden administration is engaged in talks with Nvidia regarding the sale of AI chips to China. While acknowledging the possibility of selling these chips for commercial purposes US Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo stressed that the most advanced AI chips shouldn’t be sold to Chinese companies. She mentioned that Nvidia is willing to adhere to regulations and spoke about the need to prevent the transfer of highly powerful AI chips to China, which could assist in developing advanced models.

Raimondo highlighted the need to avoid companies redesigning chips just to skirt regulations, warning that such attempts to evade restrictions on AI-enabled chips would face immediate control measures. She mentioned ongoing collaboration with Nvidia, indicating the company’s desire to comply with rules while aiming to maximize chip sales.

Nvidia chose not to comment on this matter, although its CEO previously expressed collaboration with the US government to ensure compliance with export restrictions for new chips destined for China.

Raimondo also discussed the establishment of a working group with China but noted it was too early to determine its effectiveness. She expressed disappointment regarding the delay in Chinese airlines resuming Boeing deliveries, a matter raised by President Biden during recent talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Addressing concerns about national security threats from foreign apps like TikTok, Raimondo urged Congress to pass legislation to tackle such issues. She emphasized the necessity of tools beyond just banning specific apps and stressed the importance of having measures in place to address potential security threats from various foreign-owned apps.