The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has launched an inquiry into Apex, a Singapore-based subsidiary of Kuehne+Nagel, over allegations of illegally transporting Nvidia AI chips to China.
The investigation centers on claims that Apex facilitated the shipment of AI systems, including servers manufactured by Super Micro Computer, in violation of U.S. export controls. Since 2022, Washington has restricted the export of advanced AI chips to China, citing national security concerns over potential military applications. Despite these measures, circumvention attempts via rerouting and misdeclaration have persisted.
According to sources cited by Bloomberg, the probe focuses on fewer than 50 shipments from 2024. Apex stated it is fully cooperating with U.S. authorities to resolve the matter. The company also noted that two employees responsible for the shipments have since left the firm.
A Kuehne+Nagel spokesperson confirmed the investigation to Swiss news agency AWP, reiterating that Apex is handling the matter independently. The spokesperson emphasized that Kuehne+Nagel itself has not been contacted by authorities and that the case remains under active review.
