Google And Microsoft Provide Nvidia Chip Access To Chinese Firms Despite U.S. Restrictions: Report

Alphabet Inc's Google GOOGL and Microsoft Corp MSFT are reportedly providing Chinese companies access to Nvidia Corp NVDA AI chips through data centers outside China, The Information reports.

The move comes as the current Biden administration imposes restrictions to prevent Chinese firms from utilizing U.S. technology for artificial intelligence, particularly advanced semiconductors.

The U.S. has informed allies that it is considering the strictest trade measures available if crucial chipmaking machinery providers continue with their business relations with China.

The Biden administration has asked cloud companies to scrutinize whether foreign entities are using U.S. data centers to train AI models.

According to the report, Microsoft provides server rental services, including those equipped with Nvidia's A100 and H100 chips, to Chinese customers through data centers located outside China.

Similarly, Google allows Chinese customers to use servers based outside mainland China and ensures that its services comply with U.S. export controls.

Also Read: Google's Potential $23B Wiz Acquisition Set To Enhance Cloud Security

Before U.S. export controls, China accounted for more than a quarter of Nvidia's total revenues.

It is to be noted that despite the severe trade curbs, Nvidia is on track to sell $12 billion of artificial intelligence chips in China this year.

It is also reported that Nvidia's advanced AI chips are smuggled into China despite U.S. export restrictions.

An estimate suggests about 12,500 AI chips are smuggled annually, while Nvidia sold over 2.6 million A100 and H100 chips globally last year.

Google and Microsoft maintain that their operations adhere to current U.S. regulations, providing Chinese companies with essential AI capabilities while navigating the complexities of international trade restrictions.

Price Action: GOOGL shares are trading lower by 1.63% at $180.93 at the last check on Wednesday.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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