Japanese semiconductor-related companies experienced a significant increase in their stock prices following reports that the US government may relax restrictions on the sale of chip equipment and AI memory semiconductors to China. This news had a positive impact on the market, with Tokyo Electron Ltd., a major player in chip manufacturing machinery, seeing a notable 10% rise in its stock, the largest increase since August. Another semiconductor equipment manufacturer, Kokusai Electric Corp., also witnessed a substantial surge, with its stock climbing as much as 23% during trading.

This surge in the market reflects investor confidence in the potential easing of US curbs, which could have a significant positive impact on the semiconductor sector. The possibility of relaxed restrictions has sparked optimism among investors, leading to increased stock prices for these Japanese companies.

Overall, the market response indicates the importance of the US-China relationship in the semiconductor industry and the potential benefits that could arise from a more open trade environment.