Samsung and SK hynix Test Chinese Chipmaking Equipment Amid U.S. Export Uncertainty
South Korea's memory chip giants evaluate Chinese-made semiconductor tools as they prepare for potential tightening of U.S. export restrictions.
Samsung Electronics and SK hynix are reportedly testing semiconductor manufacturing equipment developed by Chinese company Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment Inc. (AMEC) for possible use at their memory chip factories in China. The evaluations are part of the companies’ efforts to prepare for potential changes to U.S. export controls that could make it more difficult to obtain or service American-made chipmaking equipment in the future. While the testing has been underway for nearly two years, neither company has confirmed plans to adopt the Chinese equipment for large-scale production. Samsung has denied testing AMEC tools, while SK hynix has declined to comment.
The move reflects growing uncertainty surrounding the global semiconductor supply chain. In 2025, the United States revoked the companies’ “Validated End User” status, replacing it with annual export licenses that must be renewed. Although Samsung and SK hynix received licenses allowing them to continue operating their Chinese facilities in 2026, concerns remain that future restrictions could affect their ability to maintain or replace critical manufacturing equipment. Testing Chinese alternatives is therefore seen as a precautionary measure rather than a shift away from existing suppliers.
AMEC has emerged as one of China’s leading semiconductor equipment manufacturers, particularly in etching systems, which are used to carve microscopic circuit patterns onto silicon wafers during chip production. While Chinese firms still trail global leaders in advanced lithography technology, they have made significant progress in areas such as etching and deposition equipment. Their products are also generally less expensive than those offered by American and European competitors, making them increasingly attractive to manufacturers operating within China.
For Samsung and SK hynix, any eventual adoption of Chinese equipment would primarily support existing memory chip production in China rather than expand manufacturing capacity. Both companies operate major DRAM and NAND flash facilities in the country, which remain important parts of their global production networks. Industry analysts say that if AMEC’s equipment successfully meets the demanding quality and reliability standards of the two Korean chipmakers, it would represent a major milestone for China’s semiconductor equipment industry and strengthen confidence in domestic manufacturing technology.
The reported evaluations highlight the increasingly complex balance semiconductor companies must strike between geopolitics and business operations. As trade tensions continue to reshape the global technology industry, manufacturers are seeking more diversified supply chains while ensuring uninterrupted production. Whether Samsung and SK hynix ultimately adopt Chinese-made equipment or continue relying on Western suppliers, the testing underscores how geopolitical uncertainty is driving companies to explore new options to safeguard the future of semiconductor manufacturing.
