Chinese chip firms hit record high revenue driven by the AI boom and U.S. curbs
By Arjun Kharpal
Published on April 3, 2026.
Chinese semiconductor companies reported record revenue last year, largely due to AI demand, a shortage of memory chips, and U.S. export restrictions. Analysts and companies themselves are expecting further revenue surges this year. Semiconductor Manufacturing International Co. (SMIC), China's largest chip manufacturer, said revenue for 2025 rose 16% from a year ago to a record $9.3 billion and could reach $11 billion in 2026. The growth of electric vehicles and related infrastructure has supported less-advanced semiconductors, while demand for more advanced chips is high due to the growth of AI data centers and consumer electronics. Memory chip players in China have also seen a boost. However, while China's semiconductor firms continue to lag behind companies in the U.K., Europe, and Taiwan, SMIC and Hua Hong are still unable to manufacture the most advanced chips produced by the world's most advanced tools produced by ASML in the Netherlands.
Related Articles
Photographer shares remarkable before-and-after footage of reservoir as water levels rebound
A YouTube creator shared remarkable footage of a reservoir in Southern California recovering from a severe drought, highlighting the importance of rainy periods to support local water supplies.
Battlefield sees 230 combat clashes: Russians attack Pokrovsk and Huliaipole fronts almost 100 times – Ukraine's General Staff
Ukraine's General Staff reports 230 combat clashes between the Russians and Ukrainians, with both sides repelling multiple attacks and no major offensive operations.
Japan's Sakura Internet jumps 20% as Microsoft plans $10 billion AI push with SoftBank
Sakura Internet shares rose 20% after Microsoft announced plans to invest $10 billion in developing AI infrastructure and training globally.