Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger. Yonhap News.

(Washington = Yonhap News) Correspondent Kim Dong-hyun = The U.S. government is in discussions with Intel about the possibility of the U.S. government acquiring a stake in the struggling chipmaker, Bloomberg News reported on the 14th (local time), citing sources familiar with the plan.

According to the report, the plan originated from a meeting between President Trump and Intel CEO Pat Gelsinger on the 11th.

The details are currently being finalized, and the exact amount of equity the government would acquire is not yet certain.

One source said the plan is still fluid.

Intel did not comment on the plan, but said in a statement, "We are very committed to supporting President Trump's efforts to strengthen America's technology and manufacturing leadership."

The White House also did not immediately comment.

Bloomberg observed that a government stake acquisition could inject capital and improve Intel's financial situation, as the company is working to reduce costs and lay off employees.

It could also provide momentum for Intel's planned semiconductor plant construction in Ohio.

Intel previously promised to make the Ohio plant the world's largest semiconductor manufacturing facility, but the plan has been delayed multiple times due to its financial difficulties.

Bloomberg also suggested that a government equity stake would imply that Pat Gelsinger could remain as CEO.

Prior to meeting with Gelsinger, President Trump had raised concerns about his ties to China and called for his resignation.

The Trump administration has been increasingly intervening in the management of companies in key industries.

The Trump administration agreed to receive 15% of revenue from Nvidia in exchange for allowing the export of AI chips to China, and in exchange for approving Nippon Steel's acquisition of US Steel, it secured a golden share that allows it to influence key management decisions of US Steel.

In addition, the Department of Defense has decided to invest $400 million in rare earth producer MP Materials.

bluekey@yna.co.kr

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