The shortage of semiconductors paralyzes many sectors. Dependent on Asia, the main producer of chips, many countries are trying to implement a strategy to strengthen their production capacity. Starting with the United States, which is ready to invest $ 52 billion.
From 7 to 10 new foundries?
This Monday, May 24, following an event organized at a foundry of Micron Technology Inc, Gina Raimondo indicated that this government financing plan could lead to the establishment of a global envelope of “more than 150 billion dollars” from the federal government, states and private sector companies, Reuters reports. This money would finance both research and the creation of 7 to 10 new foundries across the country, believes Gina Raimondo, Secretary of State for Commerce.
“We just need the federal money to unlock private capital”, she asserted. “There could be seven, eight, nine or ten new factories in the United States by the time we’re done.”, added the Secretary of State. She believes states will compete for funds and install foundries within their territory. U.S. Senator Mark Warner, a Democrat, however, tempered the statement, telling Reuters: “It will take years for the Ministry of Commerce to make these investments.”
Strengthen technological sovereignty
The global shortage of semiconductor chips, caused by various factors including the increase in demand for electronic devices during the pandemic, has greatly affected automakers and other industries. This shortage has highlighted the dependence on Asia.
If the United States seems ready to invest substantial sums, the European Union is struggling to find a strategy. The European Commission aims to double its production level by 2030. To achieve this, the creation of an alliance between manufacturers is mentioned as well as the creation of a foundry by foreign funds.
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