How Huawei’s silicon strategy defies US sanctions, advances China’s AI ambitions

Despite being hit by US trade sanctions in 2019, Huawei managed to roll out its "world's most powerful AI processor," the Ascend 910, just months later—showing early defiance. But the real test came in 2020 when the US tightened restrictions, blocking semiconductor sales. Now, Huawei’s push to develop advanced AI chips isn’t just about survival; it’s a key part of China’s broader ambitions to lead in AI tech, even without American inputs.