Samsung, SK Hynix test Chinese chip tools
Analysis based on 13 articles · First reported Aug 05, 2026 · Last updated Aug 06, 2026
The news signals potential market share shifts in the semiconductor equipment industry, as Chinese suppliers like AMEC could gain validation from major memory makers, posing a long-term challenge to incumbents such as Applied Materials, Lam Research, and KLA Corporation. However, near-term impact is limited as evaluations are preliminary and Samsung denies testing, while U.S. export controls remain a key variable.
Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix are evaluating chipmaking equipment from China's Advanced Micro-Fabrication Equipment (AMEC) for possible use at their Chinese factories, according to three sources familiar with the matter. The memory chipmakers began testing AMEC etching equipment about two years ago amid uncertainty over U.S. export controls. While evaluations have not yet resulted in deployment decisions, they offer AMEC a chance to secure validation from leading chipmakers. The trials highlight a paradox: U.S. technology controls aimed at constraining China's semiconductor ambitions are creating opportunities for Chinese equipment makers. Samsung denied testing AMEC equipment, while SK Hynix declined to comment. The U.S. Commerce Department had designated the companies' Chinese factories as validated end users in 2023, revoked that status in 2025, and later granted an annual license for 2026. The companies remain wary of future restrictions on servicing or replacing Western tools. Chinese equipment costs 20-30% less than foreign counterparts, and AMEC is already used by Yangtze Memory Technologies. Deutsche Bank estimates Chinese suppliers could capture 25-30% of China's $28 billion wafer-fabrication equipment market this year.
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