The US may impose 100% tariffs on DRAM produced outside the country, targeting manufacturers like Samsung and SK hynix. Learn how this affects AI systems and supply chains.
© A. Krivonosov
DRAM manufacturers are facing a serious new threat: the United States is considering imposing 100% customs duties on memory produced outside the country. According to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick, companies without DRAM production facilities in the U.S. could be hit by these new tariffs.
The "Made in the USA" theme is once again becoming key in the context of semiconductors and artificial intelligence. Previously, the administration actively promoted production localization, and now, it appears that memory suppliers are next in line. This is the first major statement specifically targeting DRAM producers, which is unsurprising given memory's growing role in AI systems.
Currently, the U.S. has only one major DRAM manufacturer: Micron. Other market giants like Samsung and SK hynix, while announcing large investments in the U.S., are not yet planning to build DRAM plants in the country. Samsung has already declared investments in the semiconductor sector, but not in DRAM production, and SK hynix is investing in Indiana for 2.5D packaging and R&D, not in memory chip manufacturing.
If the U.S. does impose a 100% tariff, it could deal a serious blow to the largest producers and reshape global supply chains. Taiwanese companies such as Nanya Technology and Winbond Electronics might also fall under this new policy, further intensifying tension in the DRAM market. With memory costs already high due to AI demand, the introduction of tariffs could worsen the industry's situation and slow technological progress.