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US approves Samsung, SK Hynix chipmaking tool shipments to China for 2026: Reuters
The U.S. introduced a new annual export licence system for Samsung and SK Hynix's China chip facilities in 2026, limiting equipment to legacy processes and barring plant expansions.
- On Tuesday, the U.S. government granted annual licences to Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix to import chipmaking equipment into their China facilities for 2026, providing temporary relief after revoking licence waivers earlier this year.
- The U.S. Commerce Department proposed a site license plan replacing indefinite authorizations for Samsung Electronics' Xi'an NAND fab and SK Hynix's Wuxi DRAM and Dalian NAND facilities, requiring pre-submission of equipment lists.
- Data shows Samsung's Xi'an 1 and 2 plants produce about 270,000 NAND wafers monthly, while SK Hynix's Dalian facility turns out about 100,000, with around 35% of Samsung's NAND output expected from China in 2025.
- Industry observers warn operational uncertainties persist as Korean chipmakers prioritize yields on legacy processes over fab upgrades and expansions in China, with no major shifts expected in Wuxi for 2026.
- Validated End User status expires on December 31, 2025, meaning U.S. export licences are required and Washington still bars equipment for plant expansions and upgrades.
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(Seoul = Yonhap News) Reporter Jo Seong-heum = Every time Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix bring equipment into their Chinese semiconductor factories, they have to wait for US approval, which can cause operational disruptions...
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US reportedly eases chip tool curbs for Samsung, SK Hynix China plants
The US has reportedly adjusted export control procedures for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix operations in China, easing near term operational risks at their semiconductor plants by replacing case-by-case equipment approvals with an annual authorization process, according to industry sources cited by South Korean media.
Coverage Details
Total News Sources26
Leaning Left1Leaning Right5Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution46% Center, 45% Right
Bias Distribution
- 46% of the sources are Center, 45% of the sources lean Right
46% Center
C 46%
R 45%
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