- YMTC denies rumours of seeking a back-door listing amid rising interest in Chinese chip firms, as investors see opportunities from US export restrictions.
- Despite US sanctions, YMTC continues to innovate, narrowing the gap with global leaders and producing key 3D NAND chips for Huawei.
What happened: Chipmaker YMTC denies reports
Yangtze Memory Technologies Corp (YMTC), China’s top memory chipmaker, recently denied reports it was seeking a back-door listing to capitalise on the stock frenzy. The company, aiming to rival global leaders like Samsung and SK Hynix, said it had “no intention” of pursuing such a listing. This followed local media speculation linking YMTC to Shenzhen-listed Mason Technology. YMTC have become popular among retail investors amid tighter US sanctions. Investors see increased potential for local development in China’s chip industry as US export restrictions intensify.
As Chinese semiconductor companies gain attention, stocks tied to firms like YMTC and Huawei are in high demand. YMTC, based in Wuhan, also denied any connection to Mason Technology, whose subsidiary, Yangtze Mason Semiconductor, is involved in memory chips. YMTC has made significant strides since its 2016 founding, narrowing the gap with global competitors. It produces 3D NAND chips used in Huawei’s smartphones. Despite facing US trade sanctions since 2022, YMTC has continued to innovate with its Xtacking 4.0 chip design and strong ties to domestic chip tool makers.
However, sanctions have delayed production due to restrictions on cutting-edge equipment, including ASML’s advanced lithography machines. YMTC’s Wuhan plant halted production earlier this year due to a machine failure. The global memory chip market is set to grow significantly, projected to reach US$791.8 billion by 2033.
Also read: Chinese firms stockpile HBM chips amid US export curbs
Also read: China semiconductor index rises as TSMC cuts off chip shipments
Why it is important
YMTC’s recent denial of seeking a back-door listing highlights its focus on long-term growth rather than short-term stock market gains. This is important as the company is central to China’s ambitions to reduce reliance on foreign chipmakers. With the US imposing tighter sanctions, YMTC has become a key player in the growing demand for local semiconductor development. Investors are increasingly viewing Chinese chip firms like YMTC as a viable alternative to global giants such as Samsung and SK Hynix.
Despite facing production delays due to sanctions on critical equipment, YMTC has continued to innovate, narrowing the gap with international competitors. Its 3D NAND chips, used in Huawei smartphones, represent significant technological progress. This innovation is vital as the global memory chip market is expected to grow rapidly in the coming years. YMTC’s success could be a game-changer for China’s tech industry, shaping the future of global semiconductor production.
