SMIC Shares Climb as China Boosts Chipmaking Support Amid AI Optimism

Shares of Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp (SMIC), listed in Hong Kong under ticker 0981, moved higher on Monday as China stepped up its support for domestic chipmaking, while broader optimism surrounding artificial intelligence continued to lift semiconductor stocks across the region.

SMIC stock rose nearly 2% to HK$76.55 by the midday trading break, outperforming the largely flat Hang Seng Index. The gains came after the China Integrated Circuit Industry Investment Fund (ICF), a state-backed investment vehicle often referred to as the “Big Fund,” significantly increased its stake in the company.

According to company filings and local media reports, ICF raised its holding in SMIC to 9.25% from 4.79% in late December. The increase was linked to SMIC issuing new shares to the fund as part of its acquisition of Semiconductor Manufacturing North China Corp. The transaction, valued at approximately 40.6 billion yuan (about $5.79 billion), gives SMIC full ownership of the unit and strengthens its manufacturing footprint.

The move underscores Beijing’s ongoing efforts to reinforce China’s semiconductor industry amid rising global competition and export restrictions. With artificial intelligence driving surging demand for advanced chips, Chinese authorities are accelerating investment to achieve greater self-reliance in critical technologies. As the country’s largest and most advanced chip foundry, SMIC plays a central role in China’s long-term semiconductor strategy, particularly in supporting AI development.

Positive sentiment was not limited to SMIC alone. Other Chinese chipmaking and AI-related stocks also posted solid gains. Hua Hong Semiconductor Ltd rose nearly 3% in Hong Kong trading, while Shanghai-listed Cambricon Technologies Corp and Moore Threads Technology Co climbed 2.3% and 3.6%, respectively. These companies are widely viewed as key players in China’s push to build a competitive domestic AI and semiconductor ecosystem.

The rally reflects a broader trend across Asian markets at the start of 2026, as investors bet on sustained AI-driven demand for chips. With governments and companies increasing spending on artificial intelligence infrastructure, semiconductor manufacturers remain well-positioned to benefit from long-term growth, making China’s chip stocks an area of growing interest for global investors.