In a compelling declaration, the industry leader of the European Union (EU) announced on Monday that they are set to strengthen their partnership with Japan in the realm of semiconductors.
This collaboration comes in response to the growing necessity for countries to reinforce their control over a technology that plays a pivotal role in defense, electronics, and automotive industries.
Thierry Breton, the spokesperson for the EU, unveiled their ambitious plans, stating that the EU and Japan will join forces to diligently oversee the chip supply chain.
Additionally, they will facilitate the exchange of brilliant minds, welcoming researchers and engineers into each other’s domains.
Breton emphasized that the EU will extend their support to Japanese semiconductor companies that are considering establishing their operations in the region, which may involve providing access to subsidies.
During his visit to Tokyo, where discussions on chips and artificial intelligence with the Japanese government and various companies are taking place, Thierry Breton shared his perspective on the matter.
“Securing the supply chain of semiconductors is of paramount importance,” he affirmed in an exclusive interview with Reuters.
Japan, too, has taken substantial measures to revitalize its chip industry, which, despite maintaining an advantage in materials and equipment, has experienced a decline in global market share.
To address this issue, the Japanese government is offering subsidies and is actively supporting Rapidus, a promising chip foundry venture.
When questioned about the foundry venture, Breton expressed his enthusiasm, affirming its significance and its alignment with their shared goals.
“I perceive it as an exceedingly crucial initiative that is heading in the right direction,” he lauded.
The ambitious plans of Rapidus to manufacture cutting-edge chips rest heavily on the support provided by imec, a renowned research company based in Leuven, Belgium, and IBM.
To facilitate consolidation in the industry, a fund backed by the Japanese government recently agreed to acquire JSR Corp, a prominent photoresist maker, for a staggering $6.4 billion.
The deepening partnership between the EU and Japan occurs against the backdrop of the EU’s determination to reduce its reliance on China, a nation that seeks to enhance its capabilities in cutting-edge technologies like semiconductors. “Our intentions are crystal clear—we aim to mitigate risk,” emphasized Breton, underscoring the EU’s cautious approach.
As the EU and Japan fortify their collaboration in the domain of semiconductors, it is evident that both parties are united in their mission to secure the chip supply chain, foster technological innovation, and reduce dependence on potential risk factors.
The relentless pursuit of these objectives signifies a transformative step forward for the EU-Japan alliance and promises a brighter future for the semiconductor industry.