The U.S. Department of Commerce's Bureau of Industry and Security has launched an investigation into Singapore-based Apex Logistics over 47 shipments of AI hardware suspected of violating export restrictions to China.
The probe, which covers shipments handled in 2024, focuses on whether Apex transported systems containing Nvidia AI chips and Super Micro Computer hardware, according to sources familiar with the matter. Washington has restricted advanced semiconductor exports to China since 2022, citing national security risks.
Authorities are examining alleged smuggling routes where Nvidia-powered servers moved from Taiwan to the United States, then to Southeast Asia and Hong Kong before entering mainland China. The investigation marks the first U.S. action against a transportation company in connection with suspected illicit semiconductor trade.
Apex Logistics stated it was aware of concerns involving a small number of shipments and was cooperating fully with the probe. Its Swiss parent company, Kuehne & Nagel, said the subsidiary was cooperating and had not been contacted by authorities. Nvidia said it works with established partners to ensure compliance with export controls and that its due diligence has helped identify suspected attempts to circumvent U.S. rules.
