SK Hynix is reportedly in discussions with Intel to manufacture RAM chips in the United States for the first time, according to Reuters, citing anonymous sources. The companies are said to be considering multiple arrangements, including SK Hynix leasing space at Intel’s planned Ohio factory, or forming a joint venture potentially involving cloud service providers.
SK Hynix said no specific plans or arrangements had been finalized regarding the reported scenarios, describing its efforts as part of a broader exploration of ways to strengthen its global competitiveness. The company has benefited significantly from surging demand for high-bandwidth memory chips used in AI data centers, and is already building a $3.8 billion advanced packaging facility for AI chips in Indiana, with production expected by 2029.
The potential Intel partnership comes as the Trump administration pushes to expand domestic semiconductor manufacturing amid a global chip shortage, having signaled possible tariffs on imports alongside relief for companies investing in US production. SK Group Chairman Chey Tae-won previously expressed support for building US factories alongside the company’s South Korean operations. Any deal involving sensitive chip technology could face review under South Korean law governing overseas technology transfers. Intel and SK Hynix previously partnered in 2020, when Intel sold its NAND flash-memory business to SK Hynix for $9 billion.
