China's Export Controls to Japan Create Bottleneck; 'White-Haired Stock God' Serenity Claims South Korea's Foosung to Become a 'Big Winner'
China's export controls on tungsten have triggered a supply crisis in the AI memory chip sector. Japan, accounting for 25% of global WF6 (tungsten hexafluoride) production, faces imminent shutdowns due to shortages of tungsten precursor from China. This forces major Korean chipmakers like Samsung and SK Hynix to urgently seek alternatives.
Korean suppliers SK Specialty and Foosung are moving to fill the gap. SK Specialty has signed a long-term contract to supply Samsung with 150 tons of WF6 monthly. Foosung has begun certification with China's CSSC Specialty Gases to start large-scale WF6 imports by August. Market analysts, including social media figure "White-Haired Stock God" Serenity, have labeled Foosung a potential "big winner," with its stock rising significantly.
The crisis has led to drastic price increases, with 2026 WF6 contract prices set to rise 70-90%. Japanese suppliers warn their key inventories could be depleted by mid-2026. However, the opportunity for Korean firms hinges on continued access to Chinese tungsten powder—a geopolitical choice rather than a permanent technological advantage. The situation highlights the fragility of the concentrated WF6 supply chain and the strategic risks for downstream chip manufacturers.
marsbit06/15 09:17
