Apple seeks exception to buy memory from blacklisted Chinese supplier

Apple is looking to alleviate some of the pressure on its supply chain by seeking an exception from the Trump administration to buy RAM chips from CXMT, a company blacklisted by the Pentagon over ties to the People's Liberation Army, according to the Financial Times. The skyrocketing prices of RAM and storage have driven Apple to raise prices on almost all of its products this week, so it makes sense that it would seek alternative sources. Legally, Apple isn't barred from buying chips from CXMT, but doing business with a company tied to the Chinese military would carry serious reputational risks.

It's possible that CXMT could still find its way into Apple's supply chain. Apple's request for an exception highlights the challenges companies face in navigating complex global supply chains and geopolitical tensions. Why this matters: The ongoing trade tensions between the US and China are having a ripple effect on global supply chains, and Apple's request for an exception to buy from CXMT underscores the difficulties companies face in sourcing components.

For developers and businesses, this means that securing reliable and affordable access to critical components like RAM and storage will become increasingly challenging. For consumers, this could translate to higher prices and potentially limited product availability. The US government's blacklisting of CXMT over national security concerns also raises questions about the long-term viability of Chinese suppliers and the need for diversification in the global tech industry.

As the US-China trade war continues, companies will need to carefully navigate these complexities to maintain their supply chains and competitiveness.