SK Hynix Considers US Chip Manufacturing in Potential Discussions With Intel

SK Hynix is reportedly considering establishing memory chip manufacturing operations on US soil through potential discussions with Intel. According to reports from Reuters citing three people familiar with the matter, the collaboration could involve leasing space at Intel's planned Ohio fabrication plant or establishing a joint venture alongside cloud hyperscalers.

Analyst Jukan noted that a potential joint venture with hyperscalers hungry for memory supply is a particularly significant aspect of the discussions. Such an arrangement would allow SK Hynix and Intel to share financial risk and infrastructure. Previous reports suggested SK Hynix might use Intel Foundry to produce its base dies. While SK hynix already broke ground on a US packaging facility recently, these current discussions focus on actual chip production.

For Intel, any agreement could relieve pressure following recent financial struggles, which previously included granting the US government a 10% stake. Intel's share price experienced a small spike following news of the potential deal. Meanwhile, Seoul may show reluctance toward SK Hynix shifting production away from Korea, though utilizing Intel fabs could limit the physical capital investment required by SK Hynix.

Industry observers emphasize that these developments remain unconfirmed rumors at this stage. Both companies continue to evaluate strategic options as the domestic semiconductor landscape develops.