SK Hynix is reportedly in discussions with Intel over a potential agreement to manufacture memory chips in the United States for the first time.
According to Reuters, the talks remain at an early stage and no final decision has been made.
SK Hynix Considers Intel’s Ohio Facility
One option being discussed would involve SK Hynix leasing part of Intel’s planned semiconductor manufacturing site in Ohio.
Another possibility could include a joint venture involving SK Hynix, Intel and major cloud computing companies looking to secure long-term memory chip supplies.
SK Hynix said it is reviewing several options to strengthen the competitiveness of its memory business, including the possibility of expanding its production network.
However, the company stressed that no specific plans have been finalized.
SK Hynix Shares Rise on Report
SK Hynix shares climbed around 2.7% to 1,735,000 won, outperforming South Korea’s benchmark KOSPI index, which gained roughly 1%.
The market reaction reflected investor interest in the company’s potential expansion into U.S. semiconductor manufacturing.
Intel had not provided an immediate response to requests for comment.
HBM and DRAM Production Could Be Considered
The companies have not yet decided what types of memory chips could be produced at the Ohio facility.
SK Hynix manufactures both DRAM and NAND flash memory and is also a major supplier of high-bandwidth memory (HBM) used in artificial intelligence processors.
HBM has become increasingly important as demand for AI servers, data centers and advanced computing infrastructure continues to grow.
Advanced Memory Production Could Face Scrutiny
Any decision to manufacture advanced memory products such as HBM or DRAM in the United States could attract regulatory attention in South Korea.
These technologies are considered strategically important and sensitive.
South Korea’s trade ministry said that any investment decision would ultimately be made by SK Hynix. However, projects involving nationally important technologies could be reviewed under the country’s Industrial Technology Protection Act.
AI Demand Drives U.S. Memory Chip Expansion
The talks come as the United States continues to encourage semiconductor companies to expand domestic manufacturing capacity.
Demand for memory chips has surged alongside investment in artificial intelligence and data centers, creating pressure on suppliers to increase production.
Although semiconductor manufacturing costs in the United States remain significantly higher than in South Korea, SK Hynix is facing growing pressure from both customers and policymakers to expand its U.S. presence.
SK Hynix Expands U.S. Footprint
SK Hynix has already taken several steps to strengthen its presence in the United States.
The company recently completed a secondary listing on Nasdaq and is building a semiconductor packaging facility in Indiana.
Chairman Chey Tae-won said in July that SK Hynix should establish a U.S. manufacturing facility if conditions allow.
Intel Ohio Site Could Benefit From Partnership
Intel remains committed to developing its major semiconductor site in Ohio.
However, construction delays have pushed the expected start of production to 2030 and 2031.
A potential agreement with SK Hynix could provide Intel with additional support for the project while helping the South Korean chipmaker expand its U.S. manufacturing capacity.
For now, the discussions remain exploratory, with both companies still evaluating possible structures for any future partnership.
