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US reportedly opposes Apple buying Chinese memory chips
In a recent interview, US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick expressed the Trump administration's strong opposition to Apple's attempts to purchase memory chips from Chinese companies CXMT and YMTC. This move follows bipartisan calls in Congress against allowing Apple to collaborate with firms tied to China's military operations. Apple is actively seeking alternative sourcing for memory chips to combat ongoing supply shortages but now faces a significant hurdle.
MonitorConfidence: HighShort term horizonGeopolitical risk: High
Published 15 Aug 2026, 02:30 UTC3 min read
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Summary
TL;DR
- US government opposes Apple's plans to buy memory chips from Chinese firms.
- Bipartisan congressional push against the sourcing from CXMT and YMTC.
- YMTC is listed on the US Commerce Department's Entity List.
- Commerce Secretary stated alternative solutions must be explored.
- Apple is testing Chinese memory chips despite political pushback.
Interesting facts
- This opposition reflects broader concerns about national security regarding reliance on Chinese technology.
- XMTC and YMTC are alleged to have ties to the Chinese military, raising additional concerns.