Samsung Electronics, which reported its highest-ever operating profit in the second quarter, is moving forward with plans to expand its foundry factory in the U.S. and secure large-scale long-term contracts with global tech giants. This strategy aims to counter growing concerns about a potential semiconductor peak-out, reinforcing the company's commitment to maintaining its leadership in high-value memory and advanced foundry technologies.
On July 30, Samsung announced its consolidated revenue of 171.5 trillion won and an operating profit of 89.5 trillion won for the second quarter. The semiconductor (DS) division accounted for 99% of the company's profits, while the consumer electronics and mobile (DX) division reported a loss due to rising costs and declining demand.
Despite achieving record results, Samsung is addressing market fears of a peak-out by announcing significant new investments and securing future orders. The company has surpassed even major players like Nvidia (approximately 78 trillion won) and Apple (approximately 74 trillion won) in performance, demonstrating its determination to overcome market skepticism through expanded investments and guaranteed future supply.
Samsung has declared that construction of the second phase of its foundry in Taylor, Texas, will begin this year, aiming for completion by 2030. Following the ongoing cleanroom preparations for the first phase, which is set to begin operations by the end of this year, the company plans to accelerate the construction of the second phase to enhance local semiconductor production capacity. This move is intended to meet the surging demand for AI semiconductors and secure leadership in cutting-edge process technology.
During the earnings conference call, Samsung stated, "We are also considering additional fab acquisitions due to increased customer inquiries regarding 1.4-nanometer processes."
The aggressive expansion of foundry fabs reflects Samsung's confidence in its next-generation process competitiveness. The company anticipates that the revenue share from advanced processes will exceed half of its total, with the number of orders for 2-nanometer projects expected to more than double compared to the previous year.
Samsung also announced the successful completion of long-term supply agreements (LTA) with five major data center clients for next-generation memory, and it is currently negotiating additional long-term contracts with five other tech companies.
Industry experts note that as the memory supply shortage enters a prolonged phase, proactive measures are essential. Given that it takes over three and a half years from new fab construction to mass production, significant supply expansion is unlikely before 2028.
Kim Jae-jun, Vice President of Samsung's Memory Business Division, stated, "The unmet demand due to semiconductor shortages will worsen next year, and we will secure market leadership through proactive investments and long-term orders."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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