The landscape surrounding the export of Nvidia's advanced H200 AI chips to China is currently complex and contradictory. On one hand, the Trump administration has officially approved the sale of these powerful semiconductors to China, marking a significant policy shift from previous blanket restrictions. This approval comes with stringent conditions, including a cap that limits China-bound volumes to no more than 50% of US domestic sales, a requirement for third-party verification of the chips' technical capabilities, and explicit assurances that they will not be used for military purposes. The US Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) confirmed this revised licensing policy, which changed from a 'presumption of denial' to a case-by-case review, with the new rules taking effect on January 16. However, simultaneously, reports from multiple credible sources indicate a strong counter-move from Beijing. Chinese customs authorities have reportedly instructed their agents to prevent Nvidia's H200 chips from entering the country, effectively creating a 'de facto ban' on imports. Moreover, Chinese government officials have reportedly summoned domestic technology companies, explicitly instructing them not to purchase these chips unless absolutely necessary. While some reports suggest China might permit purchases under 'special circumstances,' such as for university research and development partnerships, the broader commercial market appears to be largely inaccessible. This dual development underscores the ongoing technological competition between the US and China, with Beijing seemingly prioritizing the advancement of its domestic chip industry and leveraging its market as a strategic tool. The Times of India's original headline, while alluding to Chinese conditions, understates the more severe and widespread blocking actions reported from China's side.