Zhong Guo Jing Ying Bao·2025-08-30 07:57Core Viewpoint - The Trump administration has decided to revoke the Validated End-User (VEU) authorization for Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix in China, aiming to further restrict China's access to advanced chip manufacturing technology, which may exacerbate global semiconductor supply chain tensions [1][2]. Group 1: Impact on Companies - Samsung China Semiconductor and SK Hynix Semiconductor (China) will no longer enjoy VEU exemptions, requiring them to apply for individual export licenses for each transaction involving semiconductor manufacturing equipment from the U.S. [2] - Samsung's Xi'an factory is one of the largest NAND flash production bases globally, while SK Hynix's Wuxi facility is its largest overseas production base for DRAM [2][3]. - The revocation of VEU will subject semiconductor production at these companies' Chinese facilities to stricter scrutiny, potentially affecting supply chains and capacity expansion [3]. Group 2: Industry Implications - This policy change may lead to capacity freezes, forced capital expenditure relocations, customer migrations, and supply chain reallocations for Samsung and SK Hynix in China [3]. - Domestic integrated circuit industry professionals believe that this move opens a window of opportunity for domestic storage manufacturers like Yangtze Memory Technologies and Changxin Memory Technologies, providing them with clearer market gaps and growth opportunities [3][4]. - The urgency for domestic alternatives in equipment and materials is heightened, benefiting local companies such as Zhongwei Company, Northern Huachuang, and Tuojing Technology [3][4]. Group 3: Future Considerations - There is a 120-day buffer period for the policy change, during which further adjustments may occur, and the likelihood of production halts is considered low [4]. - Long-term, the U.S. restrictions on China may harm the commercial interests of its allies and accelerate the growth of non-U.S. ecosystems [4].