Apple’s search for more memory-chip suppliers has drawn fresh scrutiny from the U.S. government. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has warned the technology giant against buying memory from Chinese suppliers, including CXMT.
Apple has tested CXMT memory as it looks for ways to manage tight supplies and rising costs. However, the potential deal has become politically sensitive in Washington.
Following a visit to Apple’s Advanced Manufacturing Center in Houston, Lutnick publicly opposed the idea. He also confirmed that the administration had communicated its concerns directly to Apple.
National Security Concerns Complicate Apple’s Plans
The main challenge involves CXMT’s status in the United States. The company appears on the Pentagon’s Section 1260H list of Chinese military companies.
That designation does not directly prevent Apple from purchasing CXMT chips. However, it creates significant complications. The Defense Department cannot contract with listed companies or use certain third-party products containing their components.
Moreover, reports suggest CXMT could eventually face placement on the U.S. Entity List. Such a move could severely restrict trade and undermine Apple’s effort to establish a dependable new supply source.
Apple reportedly asked the Trump administration in June for permission to purchase Mac RAM chips from CXMT. Subsequently, the company obtained chips for testing.
U.S. Industry Pushes Back
Meanwhile, opposition has grown within the United States. Memory manufacturer Micron lobbied the White House against allowing purchases from blacklisted Chinese suppliers. Lawmakers have also urged Apple to abandon the proposal.
Financially, CXMT may offer Apple less advantage than expected. The Chinese manufacturer reportedly rejected Apple’s request for a discount and sought pricing comparable with Samsung.
Still, Apple can point to an apparent difference in how companies face U.S. scrutiny. The document reports that HP and Acer already use CXMT memory in products sold outside the United States without reported penalties.
For Apple, the dispute highlights a broader challenge. The company must secure enough components while navigating rising costs, national-security concerns, and increasingly complex U.S.-China technology relations.
