Solidigm Considers $45 Billion Investment in U.S. NAND Flash Manufacturing

Late last month, we learned that SK hynix-owned NAND Flash maker Solidigm has been considering expanding its manufacturing business to the United States. According to Bloomberg, the company is contemplating a massive $45 billion investment. However, before deciding on that, Solidigm aims to get approval from the U.S. government to send equipment to its fabs in Dalian, China, so it can continue funding expansion in the United States. As a reminder, obtaining some chipmaking equipment in China requires U.S. government approval, meaning the company is putting things on hold pending regulatory approval.

Currently, Solidigm operates Fab 1 in Dalian, China, and has accelerated the construction of Fab 2 nearby. This expansion aims to increase production by 50% by 2027 to meet the rising demand for NAND Flash. Solidigm owns and operates this facility, marking a resumption of expansion in mainland China after a four-year project freeze. At present, Solidigm produces about 100,000 wafers per month of NAND Flash, so a 50% increase by 2027 would boost production to approximately 150,000 wafers per month. Read full story