Baidu’s AI Chip Unit Kunlunxin Files Confidentially for Hong Kong IPO

China’s leading search and AI company Baidu has taken a strategic step to strengthen its semiconductor ambitions, with its artificial intelligence chip subsidiary Kunlunxin filing confidentially for an initial public offering in Hong Kong, according to sources familiar with the matter.

The proposed listing signals Baidu’s intent to sharpen focus on custom AI processors at a time when China is accelerating efforts to build resilient domestic semiconductor supply chains. Kunlunxin develops high performance chips optimised for AI workloads such as deep learning inference and training, supporting Baidu’s cloud, autonomous driving and generative AI platforms.
If successful, the IPO would provide Kunlunxin with fresh capital to expand research and development, scale production partnerships and compete more aggressively with global AI chip leaders. The move also aligns with broader national priorities to reduce reliance on overseas semiconductors amid ongoing technology restrictions and geopolitical uncertainty.

For investors and industry watchers, the filing underscores how Chinese technology groups are increasingly separating strategic hardware units to unlock value, attract specialised capital and position themselves at the centre of the next phase of AI driven growth.