As global demand for alternative battery technologies grows, sodium-ion batteries are emerging as a promising contender in the next phase of energy storage innovation. Yet while Chinese firms are moving swiftly to commercialize the technology, South Korea’s major battery manufacturers remain firmly in the research phase, raising concerns that the country may be falling behind in the next key battleground for battery dominance.

The US Department of Commerce (DOC) is set to announce the results of the Section 232 investigations within the next two weeks, a potential cornerstone event for chip tariffs. The entire industry is closely monitoring the possible ripple effects.

Samsung has secured a major deal with Tesla, creating new opportunities for its foundry business and providing leverage in South Korea-US tariff negotiations. The partnership extends beyond commercial interests, aligning with US semiconductor policy, investment attraction strategies, and Washington’s push for technological independence from China. Samsung will produce Tesla’s next-generation autonomous driving chip AI6, at its Texas Taylor plant starting in 2026, using Samsung’s 2nm process technology.