Core Viewpoint - Intel has tested chip manufacturing tools from ACM Research, a company with ties to China and sanctioned subsidiaries, raising national security concerns in the U.S. [1][3] Group 1: Intel's Testing of Tools - Intel tested two wet etching tools from ACM Research for its advanced 14A chip manufacturing process, which is set to begin production in early 2027 [1][10] - The tools are used to remove materials from silicon wafers to produce semiconductor chips [1][10] - Concerns have been raised by U.S. hardliners about Intel's potential use of sanctioned tools, fearing sensitive technology could be transferred to China [1][3] Group 2: Pricing and Market Position - Tools from ACM Research are priced 20% to 30% lower than competitors like Applied Materials and Lam Research, potentially reducing Intel's equipment procurement costs [2][10] - The testing of these tools may indicate Intel's strategy to diversify its supplier base and ensure stable production for its advanced processes [2][10] Group 3: ACM Research's Background - ACM Research was founded in 1998 by Wang Hui, who holds over 57% voting rights and has both U.S. citizenship and Chinese permanent residency [2][10] - The company has a research center in Shanghai and has developed significant R&D capabilities in China [2][10] Group 4: National Security Concerns - Former U.S. officials have expressed that Intel's testing of ACM Research tools highlights vulnerabilities in U.S. technology protection policies [3][11] - ACM Research claims its U.S. operations are independent from its sanctioned subsidiaries, asserting no national security threat [3][11] Group 5: New Facility in Oregon - ACM Research announced a new facility in Hillsboro, Oregon, strategically located near major clients like Intel, to serve as a sales and service center [5][14] - This facility is expected to strengthen the partnership between ACM Research and Intel, with new tools being certified and delivered in 2024 [6][14] Group 6: Market Share and Competition - ACM Research ranks 24th in the global semiconductor equipment market, holding an 8% market share in the cleaning tools segment [8][16] - Reports indicate that Chinese manufacturers have been building competitive semiconductor manufacturing capabilities since at least 2015, increasing their global market share [8][16]