Alibaba, Baidu’s IPO plans for AI chip design units heighten China’s self-reliance drive

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Ann CaoJanuary 24, 2026 at 04:00 AM

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Alibaba and Baidu are planning IPOs for their semiconductor design units, signaling increased competition in China's AI chip market. This move reflects strong investor interest and growing demand for domestic AI computing resources, driven by Beijing's push for technological self-reliance amid US sanctions. Alibaba's T-Head unit is reportedly preparing for a public listing, while Baidu's Kunlunxin has already confidentially applied for an IPO in Hong Kong. These IPOs could intensify the competition among Chinese AI chip developers seeking to challenge Nvidia's dominance in the Chinese market. The timing of these IPOs is significant as China aims to reduce its reliance on foreign technology.

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South China Morning Post 30% Hangzhou 30% Beijing ×240% Hong Kong ×250% T-Head 60% United States ×260% Kunlunxin (Beijing) Technology 60% Nvidia ×270% China ×280% Baidu ×380% Alibaba Group Holding ×490%

Keywords

ai chips 90% ipo 80% semiconductor design 70% self-reliance 70% china 60% nvidia 60% artificial intelligence 50% alibaba 50% technology sanctions 50% baidu 50%