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Trump Approves AI Chip Sales to China in Major Policy Reversal

Trump Approves AI Chip Sales to China in Major Policy Reversal

The Trump administration is preparing to loosen key tech export restrictions to China, marking a sharp departure from Biden’s defensive strategy.

Nvidia and AMD have reportedly received approval to resume sales of modified AI chips to Chinese firms — part of a broader plan to keep Chinese developers reliant on American technology while withholding the most advanced components.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick described the new policy as a “controlled exposure,” aimed at dominating global markets by keeping U.S. firms at the center of China’s AI supply chain without fully empowering Beijing’s tech ambitions.

The move has stirred frustration among China hawks in Washington, especially as Trump eyes a potential summit with Xi Jinping later this year. Critics fear this could signal a larger concession strategy, possibly tied to negotiations over rare earths, TikTok, and trade imbalances.

Tech investor Kevin Xu believes the export shift could be the beginning of a “tech-for-access” deal — where semiconductors, minerals, and market entry become part of a transactional framework rather than a hardline separation.

While foundational barriers remain — including tariffs and investment restrictions — talks in Geneva and London have already paved the way for limited cooperation. Trump’s return to transactional diplomacy contrasts with Biden’s rigid “high fences” model, reflecting a willingness to trade tech access for leverage.

Behind the scenes, diplomacy is ramping up. U.S. and Chinese officials are planning further meetings, and there’s growing speculation that the administration may delay scheduled tariff hikes in August. As Trump pushes for a revamped trade deal, his goals are familiar: shrink the trade gap, curb fentanyl-related exports, and protect U.S. access to critical materials.

Author

Reporter at Coindoo

Alexander Zdravkov is a person who always looks for the logic behind things. He has more than 3 years of experience in the crypto space, where he skillfully identifies new trends in the world of digital currencies. Whether providing in-depth analysis or daily reports on all topics, his deep understanding and enthusiasm for what he does make him a valuable member of the team.

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