Potential partnership could bring SK Hynix memory production to U.S. soil for the first time as AI demand fuels a global supply crunch
SK Hynix is in talks with Intel ($INTC) over a potential agreement that could bring the South Korean chipmaker’s memory production to the United States for the first time, according to Reuters.
One option under discussion would see SK Hynix lease part of Intel’s long-planned semiconductor manufacturing complex in Ohio. Another scenario could involve a joint venture between SK Hynix, Intel and major cloud computing companies seeking to secure additional memory-chip supplies.
The discussions come as surging investment in artificial intelligence and data centers drives strong demand for advanced memory, including high-bandwidth memory used alongside AI accelerators. A partnership could provide Intel with additional utilization and financial support for its Ohio operations while giving SK Hynix a U.S. manufacturing footprint.
SK Hynix is already investing approximately $4 billion in an advanced packaging facility in Indiana, with mass production targeted for the second half of 2029.
However, negotiations remain preliminary. SK Hynix said it is evaluating various options to expand production capacity but emphasized that no specific decision has been made. Potential South Korean government scrutiny over sensitive memory technology could also complicate any agreement.
