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11h ago

U.S. Revokes Chip-Equipment Waivers for Samsung and SK Hynix in China

Washington moves to close what it calls a Biden-era export-control loophole by replacing waivers with case-by-case licenses.

Intel
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Overview

  • The Commerce Department removed the firms from its validated end-user list, triggering a 120-day transition after the Sept. 2 publication date to seek individual export licenses.
  • Officials said licenses will be granted to sustain existing China fabs but not to expand capacity or upgrade technology.
  • Samsung’s Xi’an plants produce roughly 35% of its NAND output and SK hynix’s Wuxi site makes about 40% of its DRAM, highlighting the operational risk.
  • South Korea said it was briefed in advance and will work with Washington to limit disruption, while SK hynix pledged close coordination with both governments.
  • China’s Ministry of Commerce condemned the move as a misuse of controls, and shares of U.S. equipment suppliers fell on expected sales hits (Lam Research -4.4%, Applied Materials -2.9%, KLA -2.8%).