China Launches Antitrust Probe Into Nvidia Amid U.S. Trade Talks

 📌 Topline: Chinese regulators have opened an antitrust investigation into Nvidia’s data center chip business, raising tensions just as Beijing and Washington resume high-level trade negotiations. The probe targets Nvidia’s dominant position in AI hardware and its recent acquisition of Mellanox Technologies.

📝 Description: According to The Wall Street Journal, China’s State Administration for Market Regulation (SAMR) is examining whether Nvidia’s practices stifle competition in the domestic AI and cloud computing sectors. The investigation focuses on Nvidia’s high-performance chips used in data centers, which are critical to both commercial and military applications.

The timing of the probe coincides with renewed U.S.–China trade talks, where technology access and export controls remain key sticking points. Nvidia, already restricted from selling its most advanced chips to China under U.S. sanctions, now faces scrutiny from Beijing over its market behavior.

Chinese officials reportedly view Nvidia’s dominance as a strategic vulnerability, especially as local firms struggle to compete. The probe could lead to fines, operational restrictions, or forced divestments—though no formal charges have been announced.

📚 Summary:

•     🔍 China opens antitrust probe into Nvidia’s data center chip business
•     🧠 Focus: AI hardware dominance and Mellanox acquisition
•     🇺🇸 Probe coincides with U.S.–China trade negotiations
•     🚫 Nvidia already restricted by U.S. export controls
•     ⚠️ Potential penalties include fines or operational limits

🌍 Context: As AI becomes a battleground for global influence, Nvidia’s role at the center of chip innovation has drawn scrutiny from both Washington and Beijing. The probe reflects China’s push to assert regulatory control over foreign tech giants while accelerating domestic alternatives.

🔗 References: WSJ & TQ Desk