Apple negotiates with blacklisted Chinese chipmakers following AI-driven HBM memory crunch
AAPL•Apple has entered negotiations with U.S.-blacklisted Chinese memory chipmakers to secure high-bandwidth memory (HBM) modules after global HBM demand outpaced supply due to surging AI workloads. Talks focus on obtaining export waivers and supply agreements to support next-generation Mac and iPhone production schedules.
1. AI-driven memory supply crunch
Global demand for high-bandwidth memory surged this year as AI training workloads expanded, outpacing available capacity and creating widespread module shortages that have lifted spot prices by over 20%. The imbalance has strained the supply chains that serve premium laptop and smartphone producers, including Apple.
2. Talks with blacklisted chipmakers
Apple has reached out to Chinese HBM manufacturers placed on the U.S. Entity List, exploring direct procurement of memory modules. Negotiations cover purchase volumes, pricing terms and potential carve-outs under export-compliance provisions to bridge immediate supply gaps.
3. Export compliance hurdles
Securing HBM from Entity List companies requires U.S. government export licenses, which can take months to obtain and impose strict end-use monitoring. Apple’s legal and regulatory teams are evaluating license pathways and potential fallback suppliers pending approval timelines.
4. Impact on device production
The additional HBM supply would underpin accelerated AI features in upcoming MacBook Pro and iPhone Pro models, ensuring Apple meets its 2026 launch targets. Delays in memory imports could force revisions to production forecasts and impact inventory levels for high-margin devices.
