US officials are investigating whether Chinese AI startup DeepSeek bypassed US restrictions by purchasing advanced Nvidia semiconductors through intermediaries in Singapore. This probe follows DeepSeek’s release of its chatbot, R1, which competes with US AI models. DeepSeek’s low-cost and efficient R1 has drawn attention for possibly relying on Western technology, prompting concerns over China’s position in the AI race. Nvidia denies any violations, while lawmakers push for tighter export controls.
