Chinese customs authorities instructed agents and logistics firms to block shipments of Nvidia’s H200 AI processors from entering the mainland, industry sources and customs briefings show, prompting suppliers to pause production and rattling plans for early deliveries. The directive came after recent U.S. export decisions had allowed H200 chips to be sent to China under controlled conditions, spurring efforts by Nvidia and its partners to organize shipments for a strong anticipated market. Sources say some consignments arrived in Hong Kong this week before customs officials intervened. Several suppliers of parts and components for the H200 paused production lines after being told shipments could not proceed, and a number of Chinese buyers cancelled orders amid the uncertainty. Independent verification of the customs instructions remains limited, and Nvidia had not issued a public statement in the immediate aftermath.

Source: Mint January 18, 2026 21:18 UTC