Nvidia plans to launch a China-specific AI chip as soon as September 2025, designed to comply with ongoing US export restrictions on advanced AI processors. This move aims to maintain Nvidia’s position in the Chinese market amid tight tech controls
What Makes the China-Specific Chip Different
The chip is expected to be a customized version of the Blackwell RTX Pro 6000, but with key features removed—such as high-bandwidth memory (HBM) and NVLink—ensuring it meets US rules. It will use GDDR7 memory instead and may be priced between $6,500 and $8,000, making it significantly more affordable than the banned H20 chip, which sold for $10–12k
Production & Launch Timing
- Mass production could begin as early as June, with full rollout in September 2025
- CEO Jensen Huang is expected to visit China—planned to coincide with the chip’s launch, restarting dialogue with Chinese leaders about Nvidia’s commitment despite restrictions
Why China Still Matters to Nvidia
China contributes about 13% of Nvidia’s total sales, roughly $17 billion annually. Despite previous export bans shrinking share to around 50%, Nvidia views China as “a crucial part of its AI ecosystem,” especially as domestic rivals like Huawei gain ground
Strategic Chip Variants: B30 and Beyond
This new chip is part of a broader effort:
- The B30 (aka 6000D) is another variant expected to support high-performance GPU clusters while meeting export rules
- Other variants may follow in September to stay ahead of restrictions and retain market share
What This Means for Markets & Users
- Revenue impact: Following bans on its H20 chip, Nvidia posted a $5.5 billion writedown. The China chip rollout aims to recoup some of that loss
- Global dynamics: As Nvidia adapts to export limits, Xiaomi, Alibaba, and Tencent continue testing these compliant chips—demonstrating ongoing demand for Nvidia’s ecosystem
- Geopolitics & strategy: Nvidia must balance US regulations with global ambitions—a trend seen across industries as tech ties and trade barriers shift
Summary
Nvidia plans to launch a revised Blackwell-based AI chip for China in September 2025, tailored to US export rules. By dropping advanced memory and features like NVLink—and aligning pricing—Nvidia aims to restore its foothold, replacing lost revenue and reinforcing ties with Chinese partners. CEO Jensen Huang’s planned China trip underscores the strategic importance of this market.
