U.S. ends fast-track waivers for China chipmakers

The U.S. Commerce Department has revoked fast-track export waivers that let several major chipmakers import American semiconductor manufacturing equipment into their factories in mainland China, officials announced this week, tightening controls that took effect in coming months. Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix were given 120 days before their validated end user, or VEU, privileges expire, while Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. said its VEU authorization for its Nanjing plant will be revoked effective Dec. 31, 2025, company officials said.

The move removes an automatic clearance that previously allowed U.S. suppliers to ship restricted tools, spare parts and materials without individual export licenses. A federal notice posted in the Federal Register listed Samsung China Semiconductor Co., SK hynix Semiconductor China Ltd. and Intel Semiconductor Dalian Ltd. among entities losing the status; Intel earlier sold its Dalian unit to SK Hynix. The Commerce Department said it intends to grant licenses necessary to keep existing fabs running, but does not plan to approve requests to expand capacity or upgrade technology at China-based facilities.