Japan Chip Manufacturing Resurgence
The CEO of Imec, Luc Van den Hove, praised Japan recent strides in reclaiming its chip manufacturing prowess, deeming their efforts “impressive.” Japan, having lagged in chip production despite being a major provider of chipmaking tools, has swiftly taken bold steps with rapid decision-making to revitalize its industry.
To bolster its chip manufacturing capabilities, Japan is offering substantial subsidies to both local and foreign chipmakers. A notable venture, Rapidus, helmed by experienced chip executives, aims to collaborate with IBM and Imec to produce cutting-edge chips. This endeavor challenges the dominance of industry giants like Taiwan’s TSMC and South Korea’s Samsung Electronics, which have long established their chipmaking supremacy.
Recognizing the Ambitious Goals
Van den Hove acknowledged the enormity of Rapidus’s goals, commending the dedicated motivation of both the Japanese team and the government toward its success. Imec, a critical contributor to chip research supported by industry and governments, contemplates establishing offices in Hokkaido, where Rapidus’s production will be centered, as well as in Tokyo.
The global landscape’s chip supply chain dynamics have prompted countries worldwide to fortify their control over chip production, triggered by events like the pandemic and U.S.-China trade tensions. Van den hove cautioned against a complete fragmentation of chip manufacturing, highlighting that attempting self-sufficiency in isolation could lead to redundancy, increased expenses, and hampered innovation.
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