Nvidia’s restricted processors haven’t disappeared from China’s AI blueprints. A Reuters review published November 13, 2026 identified projects and equipment agreements with a combined reported value exceeding 23 billion yuan ($3.2 billion), spanning planned investments, signed contracts and completed installations. The figure includes buildings, power systems and other infrastructure. Source
This is a tally of projects at different stages, not a giant GPU delivery receipt.
Reuters examined more than 150 procurement notices, investment plans, construction contracts and corporate disclosures. It found AI data-center projects designed around restricted Nvidia H100, H200 and H800 processors, with demand extending beyond China’s biggest technology companies into local government-backed ventures, universities and regional computing centers. Source
The records show Chinese customers continuing to plan purchases and, in some cases, operating restricted processors. Some facilities are operational or under construction. The report does not supply a comprehensive count of delivered chips or establish how the restricted hardware reached Chinese users. Source
A retrofitted facility in northwestern Gansu province was expected to install thousands of Nvidia chips before the end of 2026. Reuters says it remains unclear whether those processors ever arrived. Source
Restricted supply, persistent demand
Nvidia has said U.S. controls have effectively excluded it from China’s AI data-center market, referring to its ability to compete and sell directly. Losing access to a market is not the same as becoming unwanted there. Source
Washington began restricting Nvidia’s advanced AI processors in 2022 and later tightened controls on modified China-market chips, including the H800. In January 2026, the administration moved to review H200 export licenses for eligible Chinese customers individually, subject to conditions, Reuters reports. Source
Operators face potential delays, supply disruptions or costly redesigns around domestic chips as export controls tighten, Reuters reports. Source
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