Rapidus, supported by companies like Toyota, Sony, and NTT, achieved a breakthrough by prototyping 2nm GAA transistors, utilizing advanced EUV lithography and IBM collaboration. This prototype symbolizes national strategic efforts to revitalize Japan’s semiconductor sector, which lost ground to Taiwan and South Korea since the 1990s. The government has committed substantial funding but estimates total investment needs around 5 trillion yen for mass production by 2027.
Despite the prototype’s success, scaling up faces hurdles such as financing, supply chain risks, and a critical shortage of skilled engineers. Cultural constraints in Japan complicate attracting global talent due to fixed salary structures. Industry leaders stress the importance of ongoing government and private sector support to maintain momentum.
Japan’s strategy also includes international cooperation with Taiwan, South Korea, and the US to enhance supply chain security amid geopolitical tensions. This multifaceted approach balances domestic capacity building with strategic alliances, recognizing that independent revival demands technological, financial, and human resource innovation.
👉 Pročitaj original: CIO Magazine
