ChangXin Memory Technologies Inc. (CXMT), a Chinese semiconductor firm, has made progress in chipmaking technology despite restrictions from US export controls.

The company developed DDR5 dynamic random access memory (DRAM) chips with a 16-nanometer half pitch, surpassing the 18-nanometer limit set by US regulations.

This achievement was not expected until late 2025 or early 2026.

Research from the Canadian consultancy TechInsights reveals that CXMT’s DDR5 technology uses advanced manufacturing methods not seen in China before.

Though it remains about three years behind competitors like SK hynix, Samsung and Micron Technology, it marks progress in China’s efforts to enhance technological ressiliance.