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The Japan Times
Apple seeks to buy Chinese-made memory chips by lobbying U.S.
Apple is currently in discussions to source memory chips from two Chinese semiconductor manufacturers, ChangXin Memory Technologies and Yangtze Memory Technologies. This move aims to address a significant global memory chip shortage that has compelled Apple to hike prices for its products. While ongoing negotiations could provide a solution, the involvement of companies on a Pentagon blacklist raises complex political implications, leading Apple executives, including Tim Cook, to lobby U.S. government officials for support in managing potential fallout.
MonitorConfidence: MediumShort term horizonGeopolitical risk: High
Published 2 Jul 2026, 02:45 UTC1 min read
Visit original article ↗Lead image — The Japan Times
Summary
TL;DR
- Apple seeks chips from Chinese companies on a U.S. blacklist.
- Negotiations ongoing with ChangXin and Yangtze Memory Technologies.
- Aim is to combat a global memory shortage impacting prices.
- Tim Cook lobbying U.S. officials to ease political tensions.
- Potential acquisition faces scrutiny due to national security concerns.
Interesting facts
- Apple's negotiations reflect the ongoing semiconductor crisis globally.
- The involvement of Pentagon blacklist entities highlights tensions between U.S. and China.
- Raising prices across product lines indicates significant supply chain impacts.