Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang recently met with President Donald Trump at the White House to discuss artificial intelligence (AI) policy and semiconductor technology. This meeting occurred amid rising concerns over Chinese AI startup DeepSeek’s advancements, which have the potential to impact Nvidia’s market position. DeepSeek has developed an efficient AI model using Nvidia’s H800 chip, leading to fears of reduced demand for Nvidia products and a significant drop in the company’s stock value.
The meeting, arranged weeks in advance, focused on AI policy and the implications of DeepSeek’s developments. While specific details were not disclosed, President Trump hinted at potential tariffs on computer chips. Nvidia emphasized the importance of strengthening U.S. AI and technological leadership in their statement. U.S. authorities are investigating how DeepSeek, allegedly using fewer resources than its U.S. counterparts, acquired AI chips, focusing on Nvidia’s subsidiary in Singapore. The U.S. government is considering tightening export controls to restrict AI technology advancements in China.
Nvidia has previously protested the expansion of AI chip restrictions to over 100 countries, including Singapore. The company clarified that their revenue from Singapore does not imply diversion to China, stating compliance with all legal requirements. This meeting underscores ongoing tensions and strategic maneuvers in the global AI landscape.