SK Hynix is in exploratory talks with Intel over options that could lead the South Korean company to manufacture memory chips in the United States for the first time, according to people familiar with the discussions.
One scenario under consideration would involve SK Hynix leasing part of Intel’s planned Ohio manufacturing complex. Another could create a venture involving Intel and large cloud-computing customers seeking more secure supplies of memory used in AI systems.
The discussions reflect a global shortage of advanced memory, particularly high-bandwidth memory used alongside AI accelerators. Customers are pushing suppliers to expand capacity while governments seek more domestic semiconductor production.
No final structure has been agreed and the talks remain preliminary. Any arrangement would also have to navigate concerns in South Korea about moving sensitive memory-manufacturing technology abroad.
Source: Reuters, Sept. 16, 2026.
