U.S. Won't Impede Access to Nvidia AI Chips, Commerce Secretary Says

Lutnick: American firms have vast demand for advanced AI chips, government won't stand in their way

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Trump administration will not restrict American companies' access to advanced artificial intelligence chips designed by Nvidia, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said in testimony before a Senate hearing. Lutnick stated that the government recognizes the high demand from U.S. firms for these AI chips and does not want to impede their ability to obtain them.

Why it matters

Nvidia's AI chips are critical components for many American tech and manufacturing companies as they develop new AI-powered products and services. The Commerce Secretary's comments signal the administration's intent to support domestic access to these advanced technologies without hampering U.S. competitiveness.

The details

In his Senate testimony, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick said the Trump administration has no plans to restrict American firms' ability to obtain Nvidia's powerful AI-focused computer chips. Lutnick acknowledged the 'vast demand' from U.S. companies for these advanced chips and stated the government does not want to 'do anything that stands in their way'.

  • Lutnick made these comments during a Senate hearing on February 10, 2026.

The players

Howard Lutnick

The U.S. Commerce Secretary, responsible for overseeing policies that impact American businesses and their access to critical technologies.

Nvidia

A leading semiconductor company that designs advanced artificial intelligence computer chips used by many American tech and manufacturing firms.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We agree that demand by American firms is vast for these chips, and we don't want to do anything that stands in their way.”

— Howard Lutnick, U.S. Commerce Secretary (Reuters)

The takeaway

The Commerce Secretary's comments signal the administration's intent to maintain American companies' access to Nvidia's cutting-edge AI chips, a critical component for many U.S. tech and manufacturing firms as they develop new AI-powered products and services.