Nvidia CEO Highlights China's AI Potential at Global Supply Chain Expo

In a significant address at the China International Supply Chain Expo on July 16, 2025, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang emphasized the transformative potential of China's open-source artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing global supply chains. The expo, which attracted approximately 650 companies from 60 countries, marks an essential gathering for international stakeholders in the field of supply chain management.

Huang's remarks come at a pivotal moment as Nvidia, which recently became the first U.S. company to reach a market value of $4 trillion, resumes sales of its H20 AI chips to China after easing export restrictions imposed by the U.S. government. In his speech, Huang described the AI landscape in China as a "catalyst for global progress," stating that innovations from Chinese startups such as DeepSeek are providing opportunities for various countries and industries to engage in the AI revolution.

The significance of Huang’s comments is underscored by the geopolitical context. Following a series of negotiations between the United States and China, Nvidia received assurances from U.S. officials regarding the issuance of licenses for its AI chips. This development allows the company to re-enter the Chinese market, further solidifying China's role as a key player in the global technology sector. According to a statement from Nvidia, the firm is currently processing applications to sell its H20 GPU to Chinese clients, and is also developing a new chip, the RTX Pro GPU, compliant with U.S. export regulations.

Huang pointed to the rapid pace of innovation in China, attributing it to the country's robust ecosystem of researchers, developers, and entrepreneurs. "AI is transforming every industry from scientific research and healthcare to energy, transportation, and logistics," he stated, highlighting the broad applicability of AI technologies.

The expo, held in Beijing, is seen as a strategic effort by China to position itself as a champion of free trade amid rising global protectionism. President Xi Jinping has emphasized the need for greater self-reliance in light of external pressures, leading to initiatives aimed at bolstering the domestic economy.

Katrina Yu, reporting from the event, noted that the expo serves as a platform for China to assert its importance in global supply chains, stating, "Beijing is trying to make a statement: China is not replaceable." This sentiment is echoed by the diverse international representation at the event, which underscores the country's integral role in global logistics.

As the expo progresses, the implications of Nvidia's renewed engagement with China and the broader context of U.S.-China relations will continue to unfold. Experts suggest that this development could signal a shift in tech supply chains, potentially enhancing collaboration between U.S. companies and Chinese firms in the AI sector.

In conclusion, Huang's endorsement of China's AI capabilities at the expo not only illustrates the potential for technological advancement but also reflects the evolving dynamics of global trade and technology. As stakeholders monitor these developments, the outcomes of this interaction could reshape the future of AI and supply chains worldwide.