U.S. Government Weighs Potential Ban on Chinese AI Firm DeepSeek

By Fumi Nozawa

The Trump administration is reportedly evaluating measures to restrict Chinese artificial intelligence company DeepSeek, including potential limitations on its access to Nvidia’s advanced AI processors and possible blocks on American users accessing its services, according to a New York Times report.

These potential sanctions represent the latest move in the ongoing technological rivalry between the U.S. and China. The consideration comes several months after DeepSeek made significant waves in both Silicon Valley and financial markets with its competitive AI offerings.

This development follows recent White House actions to tighten export controls on Nvidia’s AI chips to China, building upon restrictions initially implemented during the Biden administration. The measures specifically target advanced computing technologies that could enhance China’s AI capabilities.

DeepSeek has gained substantial traction among U.S.-based AI developers in recent months, with its cost-effective solutions putting pressure on American tech firms to reduce prices for their cutting-edge AI models. The company’s rapid rise has raised concerns within the U.S. tech sector about maintaining competitive advantage.

The Chinese AI lab faces ongoing scrutiny regarding its development practices. OpenAI has publicly accused DeepSeek of allegedly using proprietary techniques to refine its models, potentially violating intellectual property agreements. These allegations have contributed to growing skepticism about the company’s methods among U.S. policymakers.