SK Hynix is in talks with Intel about an agreement under which this Korean company will produce memory chips on U.S. soil for the first time. This information comes from three sources familiar with the negotiations.
Details of the Negotiations
According to a possible scenario, SK Hynix may lease part of Intel's chip manufacturing facilities in Ohio. Additionally, the company could form a joint collaboration with Intel and several large cloud companies seeking a stable supply of memory chips.
An agreement in this regard could reduce pressures on Intel, which is currently facing economic challenges, and be seen as a significant victory for the U.S. government. The Trump administration has pressured chip manufacturers to produce in the United States, especially given the increasing need for investment in artificial intelligence and data centers that have led to a severe shortage of memory chips.
Challenges and Obstacles
However, the possibility of opposition from Seoul could be a significant barrier. One source described the negotiations as exploratory and emphasized that no decisions have been made at this stage. Additionally, SK Hynix may consider other options for making this agreement.
Three sources, who requested anonymity, indicated that any agreement for advanced memory production like HBM or even DRAM may face opposition from the South Korean government, as these technologies are considered sensitive.
SK Hynix has stated that it is exploring various measures, including establishing additional manufacturing bases to enhance competitiveness in the memory business, but no decisions have been made at this time.
Intel has also declined to comment on the matter but has stated that it will continue to invest in Ohio to prepare the facilities for operation. Furthermore, the South Korean Ministry of Trade has indicated that any decision in this regard will be at the company's discretion, but if it involves key national technologies, it must be reviewed under the Industrial Technology Protection Act.
