Core Viewpoint - Kioxia Corporation and Sandisk Corporation have extended their joint venture agreements for an additional five years, now running through December 31, 2034, highlighting a long-standing partnership in the flash memory industry [1][2]. Group 1: Joint Venture Extension - The extension of the joint venture agreements at Kioxia's Yokkaichi Plant emphasizes the collaboration between Kioxia and Sandisk, focusing on AI-enabled smart manufacturing and economies of scale for advanced 3D flash memory production [2]. - The joint venture agreement for Kioxia's Kitakami Plant is also aligned with the Yokkaichi agreement, extending through December 31, 2034 [2]. Group 2: Financial Aspects - Sandisk will pay Kioxia USD 1.165 billion for manufacturing services and continued supply availability, with payments scheduled in installments from 2026 to 2029 [3]. Group 3: Strategic Importance - The partnership is viewed as a strategic move to enhance Kioxia's profitability by leveraging economies of scale at the largest flash memory manufacturing facilities [4]. - The collaboration has consistently delivered high-performing, low-cost NAND technology, contributing to the expected growth of the NAND market, projected to reach USD 150 billion by 2026 [5]. Group 4: Commitment to Innovation - Kioxia and Sandisk are committed to maximizing synergies through co-development of 3D flash memory and joint investments, aiming to strengthen their competitive positions in the global memory industry [5].