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U.S. Restrictions Hamper YMTC's Chip Ambitions

U.S. restrictions and sanctions are slowing YMTC's chip production. Despite investing in advanced 3D NAND devices, the company's market share is dwindling.

In this image there are so many cookies in the box. On the cookies there are choc chips.
In this image there are so many cookies in the box. On the cookies there are choc chips.

U.S. Restrictions Hamper YMTC's Chip Ambitions

YMTC, a leading Chinese chipmaker, faces challenges due to U.S. export restrictions. Despite initiating production of advanced 3D NAND devices, the company's market share has dropped below 5% in the stock market today. The withdrawal of multinational equipment vendors and U.S. sanctions hinder YMTC's production capabilities and expansion plans.

YMTC's recent setbacks began in the second quarter of 2025, when U.S. restrictions on advanced tools led to a fall in its market share to below 5% in the stock market. The company has since initiated production of its 5th Generation (Xtacking 4.0) and is working on its 6th Generation (Xtacking 5.0) 3D NAND devices.

However, the search for alternative equipment manufacturers to expand production capacity has been unsuccessful due to U.S. restrictions. The withdrawal of multinational wafer fab equipment vendors from servicing tools at YMTC's Wuhan fabrication site has further hampered production capabilities. YMTC, among the leaders in transitioning to China's homegrown chipmaking tools, currently faces performance issues compared to market leaders.

YMTC's production and expansion plans are hindered by U.S. sanctions, which prevent the company from sourcing crucial equipment like deposition and etching tools. Despite these challenges, YMTC continues to invest in advanced 3D NAND devices, aiming to maintain its position in the global chip market.

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