Nvidia has publicly disagreed with Anthropic's support for the US Department of Commerce's "Framework for Artificial Intelligence Diffusion," which aims to impose sweeping export restrictions on AI chips starting May 15. The disagreement highlights the diverging views within the tech industry on how to approach the sensitive issue of AI chip exports, particularly to countries like China.

Anthropic, a prominent AI startup, has been a vocal supporter of the export controls, citing concerns over the potential misuse of AI technology by countries subject to US sanctions. The company has claimed that these AI chips are being smuggled into restricted countries through unconventional means, such as hiding them in "baby bumps" or "alongside live lobsters." However, Nvidia has dismissed these claims as "tall tales," arguing that American firms should focus on innovation rather than relying on export restrictions.

The export restrictions would have significant implications for Nvidia's global revenue stream. The company has already stated that a new licensing requirement for its H20 AI chips to be sold in China could cost it $5.5 billion in the first quarter of its 2026 fiscal year. This financial hit would be a substantial blow to Nvidia's bottom line, making its opposition to the export controls understandable.

The debate surrounding AI chip export controls raises important questions about the balance between national security concerns and the need to promote innovation in the tech industry. While Anthropic and other supporters of the export controls argue that they are necessary to prevent the misuse of AI technology, Nvidia and other opponents contend that they would stifle innovation and hinder the growth of the industry.

The US Department of Commerce's "Framework for Artificial Intelligence Diffusion" is part of a broader effort by the US government to regulate the export of sensitive technologies, including AI chips. The framework aims to prevent the unauthorized transfer of AI technology to countries subject to US sanctions, but its implementation has sparked controversy within the tech industry.

As the May 15 deadline for the export controls approaches, the tech industry is watching closely to see how the situation will unfold. Will the US government push forward with the export restrictions, or will it heed the concerns of companies like Nvidia and reconsider its approach? The outcome will have significant implications for the future of AI innovation and the global tech industry.

TechCrunch reached out to Nvidia for comment, but the company has yet to respond. Meanwhile, the debate over AI chip export controls is likely to continue, with both sides digging in their heels and making their cases to the US government and the broader tech community.