The US has allowed Samsung and SK Hynix to export chips to China again after the Trump administration previously revoked that permission.
The US government is allowing Samsung and SK Hynix to again supply American chip production equipment to their factories in China. Sources reported this to Reuters. The permission is initially valid for one year. From 2027, both companies must apply for a new exemption each year.
Export restrictions and exceptions
Since 2022, the US has had strict export rules for advanced chip technology to China. Companies were only allowed to supply if they received special status from the US Department of Commerce. Samsung and SK Hynix initially received this permission, but lost it again when the Trump administration tightened the rules.
Important for the memory market
The measure is important for the global chip market. Samsung is the world’s largest producer of flash memory, while SK Hynix is the market leader in DRAM. Their factories in China play a major role in supplying memory chips. Although Samsung and SK Hynix are getting some breathing room for the time being, the situation remains uncertain. The annual review from 2027 makes it clear that geopolitical tensions surrounding semiconductors are unlikely to disappear anytime soon.
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