Nvidia Denies Claims of DeepSeek Using Smuggled Blackwell Chips for AI Training
Nvidia Corp. has refuted allegations that Chinese AI firm DeepSeek utilized smuggled Blackwell chips to train its models. According to The Information, DeepSeek allegedly obtained these advanced chips through disassembled servers entering China via unauthorized channels. The company, backed by Chinese investment firm High-Flyer, has yet to comment on the claims.
DeepSeek gained global attention earlier this year with an AI system rivaling top U.S. technology at a fraction of the development cost. High-Flyer had previously acquired 10,000 Nvidia GPUs in 2021 before U.S. export restrictions on advanced chips to China took effect. While President Trump recently approved shipments of the older H200 model to China, Blackwell chips remain under strict export controls.
Nvidia maintains its position against the smuggling claims, emphasizing compliance with U.S. regulations. American officials view Blackwell as Nvidia's most sophisticated AI technology and have blocked its export to China to preserve a competitive edge in artificial intelligence development.