Sources: SK Hynix subsidiary Solidigm weighs building a NAND flash memory factory in the US; SK Hynix is also in talks with Intel for a separate project in Ohio

The potential for SK hynix to produce memory chips in the US could impact global supply chains and pricing dynamics.

SK hynix is reportedly in preliminary discussions with Intel about potential memory chip manufacturing in the United States. According to sources, these discussions include scenarios such as SK hynix leasing a portion of Intel's planned semiconductor fabrication facility in Ohio. Another possibility being explored is the formation of a joint venture involving SK hynix, Intel, and major cloud service providers. However, SK hynix has issued a statement clarifying that these are exploratory options and no concrete plans, agreements, or decisions have been made. The company emphasized that nothing is finalized regarding cooperation with specific companies or U.S. production at this time, despite reports of these talks.

The potential involvement of cloud firms in a joint venture signals a growing trend of hyperscalers seeking more direct control over their hardware supply chains, especially for critical components like memory. This could lead to custom silicon development and manufacturing strategies to meet specific AI and data center demands.

If these talks materialize, it would represent a significant expansion of memory chip manufacturing within the United States, potentially reducing reliance on overseas production and fostering domestic technological development. It could also intensify competition among memory manufacturers operating within the U.S. market.