The U.S. government has approved annual licenses for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix, allowing the two South Korean chipmakers to import U.S.-made semiconductor manufacturing equipment into their China-based facilities in 2026, according to a Reuters report citing sources familiar with the decision.
The approval comes after Washington earlier this year withdrew broad license waivers that had previously applied to certain foreign semiconductor firms operating in China. Under the updated framework, U.S. authorities will now assess exports of chipmaking equipment to China on a yearly basis rather than granting open-ended permissions.
As part of this new system, companies must secure annual clearance for shipments of U.S. semiconductor tools. The shift marks a tighter and more controlled approach to technology exports amid ongoing U.S.-China tensions.
Following the news, SK Hynix shares rose about 1.5%, while Samsung Electronics gained nearly 1% in Seoul trading, reflecting investor relief over continued access to critical equipment.
Previously, Samsung, SK Hynix, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co benefited from “validated end user” status, which allowed them to receive U.S. chipmaking tools without applying for individual export licenses. However, that designation is set to expire on December 31, meaning future deliveries to Chinese plants will require explicit approval.
Both Samsung and SK Hynix maintain significant manufacturing operations in China, particularly for memory chips that are widely used in artificial intelligence data centers. Continued access to advanced U.S. equipment is therefore seen as critical for maintaining stable production and supporting the global AI supply chain.
