China’s DRAM Leader CXMT Reportedly Plans NAND R&D Line, Could Challenge Samsung, SK hynix and YMTC From TrendForce: "China’s memory chip makers may be looking beyond their traditional strongholds. According to Reuters, sources say CXMT is preparing to enter the fast-growing NAND flash market, putting the DRAM maker in competition with both global leaders such as Samsung Electronics and domestic rival YMTC. Notably, CXMT is said to have already discussed its NAND plans with potential customers. The report notes that these include a newly established startup that intends to purchase CXMT’s NAND chips for storage products used in AI systems and supercomputers. CXMT reportedly plans to establish an R&D production line for NAND flash memory at its new plant in Beijing. The company has also set up a research institute in the Chinese capital, with NAND development among its projects. However, it remains unclear when the R&D line will begin operating or whether CXMT plans to move beyond research and trial production into large-scale commercial manufacturing, the report adds. CXMT would be entering a NAND market largely dominated by established global players. According to TrendForce, Samsung led the market in 2Q26 with a 29.3% share, followed by SK hynix at 18.2% and Micron at 15.1%. By comparison, TrendForce notes that CXMT has been gaining ground on global leaders in its core DRAM market, ranking fourth in 2Q26 with a 9.5% share, behind Samsung at 39.4%, SK hynix at 24.9%, and Micron at 23.3%."