Storyline
CXMT's Rising Leverage in Global Chip Supply Chain
Chinese memory maker CXMT gains bargaining power over Apple and other tech giants as China's chip self-sufficiency drive accelerates, prompting Samsung and SK hynix to consider Chinese equipment to protect their China operations from US export controls.
- US Weighs Tighter Chip Export Limits on China Even as Apple Eyes Chinese Memory Suppliers
Two separate reports highlight conflicting currents in US-China tech policy: a possible push to block ASML's older DUV lithography tools from China, and a possible easing that could let Apple buy memory chips from Chinese suppliers CXMT and YMTC.
- CXMT Gains Leverage Over Apple as China's Chip Self-Sufficiency Push Accelerates
Chinese memory maker CXMT has refused Apple's request for a price cut, backed by strong domestic demand from Huawei and Xiaomi, while Samsung and SK hynix explore Chinese equipment to shield their China fabs from US export controls.
- Apple Faces DRAM Squeeze That Could Delay iPhone 18 Pro Production
Reports indicate Apple is struggling to secure enough DRAM supply to move forward with TSMC-manufactured A20 Pro chips, with roughly $1 billion worth of units reportedly stalled and negotiations with Chinese supplier CXMT failing to yield a discount.