SK Hynix is currently navigating complex U.S.-China relations in the chipmaking industry. The company's flash memory unit, Solidigm, is reportedly seeking U.S. approval to export American chipmaking equipment to its factory in Dalian, China. This request is part of a condition to continue the construction of a semiconductor factory in the United States, according to sources cited by Reuters.
Plans for U.S. Factory
Solidigm is planning to build a NAND flash memory chip factory in the U.S., with upstate New York being considered as a potential location. NAND flash chips are crucial components used in solid-state storage drives, which power devices ranging from laptops and smartphones to AI data centers.
Impact of Global Component Shortage
The ongoing global component shortage, driven by soaring demand for AI data centers, has significantly increased prices for essential components, including high-speed RAM chips and SSDs. Research firm TrendForce anticipates that NAND prices could rise by 15% to 20% in the fourth quarter of this year.
