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Japan earmarks another ¥802.5 billion for chip startup Rapidus
Japan is allocating ¥802.5 billion ($5.4 billion) in support for chip startup Rapidus, boosting its commitment to secure semiconductor supply amidst U.S.-China tensions. This funding increases total support to ¥1.72 trillion, aiming for Rapidus to produce advanced semiconductors by 2027, challenging established competitors like TSMC.
Key points
- Japan's Ministry of Economy approved ¥675.5 billion for front-end processing and ¥127 billion for back-end processing.
- Total government funding for Rapidus reaches ¥1.72 trillion, indicating strong state support for semiconductor production.
- Rapidus is targeting mass production of advanced chips from April 2027, needing to scale from zero to compete with giants like TSMC.
- The funding strategy is part of Japan's response to increasing global semiconductor demand and geopolitical tensions.
Why it matters
- The ongoing chip shortage and geopolitical conflicts (U.S.-China tensions) are impacting global semiconductor supply chains.
- In 2025, there is an anticipated increase in technological trends emphasizing semiconductor resilience and diversification of supply.
- Japan's investment aligns with broader industry trends where countries aim to boost local semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.
Japan's significant investment in Rapidus underscores a strategic pivot towards enhancing local semiconductor production amid international tensions, aiming for a future of greater technological autonomy.