Rapidus, established in 2022 with backing from major companies like Toyota and Sony, aims to revitalize Japan’s semiconductor sector. The recent success in producing 2nm GAA transistor prototypes reflects ongoing fears of Japan’s declining competitiveness versus Taiwan’s TSMC and South Korea’s Samsung. Although the government supports Rapidus with substantial funding, achieving mass production remains a hurdle due to the required financial and technological investments. Core technologies involve collaborations with IBM, focusing on innovations such as GAA structures and EUV lithography, promising reduced power consumption and improved performance.
While the prototype is a promising start, experts highlight the need for sustainable investment and skilled talent to ensure the project’s longevity. The partnership dynamics and strategic collaborations with countries like Taiwan, South Korea, and the U.S. are crucial for building a resilient semiconductor supply chain. Despite the challenges of attracting foreign talent and the deeply embedded corporate culture in Japan, meeting future demands for semiconductors is pivotal for Japan’s economic security and technological sovereignty. Rapidus symbolizes Japan’s commitment to re-establishing itself in the global semiconductor landscape while tackling domestic supply chain vulnerabilities.
👉 Pročitaj original: CIO Magazine
