In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in the United States and tap into the growing demand for cutting-edge semiconductor technology, Japanese chipmaker Rapidus Corp has announced its plans to open a business base in Silicon Valley by the end of March. This decision comes as part of Rapidus’ broader strategy to expand its sales network and solidify its position in the global semiconductor market.
Atsuyoshi Koike, the CEO of Rapidus, emphasized the critical role Silicon Valley plays for the company, citing its ability to provide unparalleled access to customers. The move to establish a business base in the heart of technological innovation aligns with Rapidus’ vision to be at the forefront of next-generation chip development and cater to the increasing demand for advanced semiconductor solutions.
Rapidus has set its sights on mass producing state-of-the-art 2-nanometer chips in 2024, and to achieve this ambitious goal, the company has entered into a partnership with U.S. tech giant IBM Corp. This collaboration underscores the global nature of the semiconductor industry, where cross-border partnerships are essential for driving innovation and meeting the demands of an ever-evolving market.
The announcement was made by Koike during a meeting organized by the Japanese government for chip and AI firms in San Francisco. The Japanese government, recognizing the importance of boosting the supply capacity of cutting-edge semiconductors, has thrown its support behind companies like Rapidus and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC). The goal is not only to achieve carbon neutrality but also to ensure economic security in the face of global supply chain challenges.
The meeting in San Francisco was attended by top executives from prominent chipmakers such as Advanced Micro Devices Inc., Western Digital Corp., and Nvidia Corp. The discussions centered around making supply chains more robust for crucial items like semiconductors, especially in the wake of parts shortages caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Japanese industry minister Yasutoshi Nishimura highlighted the importance of private-sector cooperation between Japan and the United States, emphasizing the need for the government to further accelerate this momentum.
As Rapidus Corp prepares to establish its business base in Silicon Valley, the move signifies a significant step forward in the company’s global expansion strategy. With plans to mass produce 2-nanometer chips in collaboration with IBM, Rapidus is poised to contribute to the advancement of semiconductor technology. The Japanese government’s commitment to supporting domestic chip production and fostering international collaboration reflects the industry’s recognition of the vital role semiconductors play in achieving both technological innovation and economic security on a global scale.
(Source: Ryo Mukano | Nikkei Asia | Japan Today)
