Apple Seeks Memory Supply Deal With Blacklisted Chinese Firm

The tech titan’s push to secure cheaper storage and memory components comes as price hikes ripple across its entire product lineup. While no federal law explicitly prohibits purchasing from CXMT, the firm remains a target for potential export controls due to its proximity to the People’s Liberation Army. The Commerce Department previously considered adding the manufacturer to the Entity List, a move paused only by the volatility of ongoing trade negotiations.

Tim Cook has cultivated close ties with the White House, yet a green light for this partnership would likely ignite fierce congressional opposition. Representative John Moolenaar, who chairs the House China committee, warned that such a deal would be a grave mistake. He argues that enabling the Chinese Communist Party to dominate critical tech sectors undermines U.S. efforts to build secure, independent supply chains with international allies.