Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang met with former U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House today to discuss topics such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductor technology, and the ongoing trade tensions related to AI chip exports.
The meeting took place amid increased scrutiny of U.S. AI policy and aimed to ensure that America maintains its competitive edge in AI while addressing national security issues.
The Biden administration is considering further restrictions on AI chip exports to China, a move that Nvidia has previously warned against, arguing that excessive regulations could hinder innovation and encourage China to develop its own semiconductor capabilities. Sources familiar with the discussions indicated that Huang and Trump examined potential policy measures to bolster domestic semiconductor manufacturing, ensuring that American companies like Nvidia stay at the forefront of global AI development.
They also discussed the emergence of Chinese AI firms, including DeepSeek, which has created cost-effective AI models utilizing Nvidia’s H800 chips. After the meeting, Trump characterized the discussions as “positive and forward-thinking,” suggesting the possibility of tariffs on AI chips to safeguard U.S. technological leadership.
However, no official policy changes have been announced at this time. As Nvidia continues to lead the AI chip market, the company’s influence on the global AI landscape remains significant. Industry analysts believe that the direction of U.S. trade policies regarding AI chips will have extensive implications for both economic and national security interests.
With AI becoming a key element of geopolitical competition, Nvidia’s interactions with policymakers underscore the increasing overlap of technology, business, and international relations.