- This partnership aims for cutting-edge global research and development (R&D) Center specialising in third-generation semiconductors
- Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation boasts a thriving microelectronics ecosystem
With the support of the Innovation, Technology, and Industry Bureau and the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES), a significant partnership has been forged between the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and J2 Semiconductor (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., a leading microelectronics company based in mainland China.
This collaboration is marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that outlines ambitious plans for the establishment of a cutting-edge global research and development (R&D) Center specializing in third-generation semiconductors at the Hong Kong Science Park. Additionally, it will pave the way for the creation of Hong Kong’s first Silicon Carbide (SiC) 8-inch advanced wafer fab.
The primary objective of this strategic partnership is to fortify Hong Kong’s innovation and technology ecosystem while fostering new industrialization. J2 Semiconductor, as a prominent semiconductor chip design enterprise, is deeply committed to addressing the robust demand for domestically produced automotive chips within the Chinese automotive industry.
The company specialises in high-performance silicon carbide (SiC) devices, with a primary focus on applications in automotive technology, power conversion, and communications. Their cutting-edge SiC technology finds relevance in a wide range of applications, including electric vehicles and the supporting infrastructure such as charging stations, smart grids, and energy storage.
Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation boasts a thriving microelectronics ecosystem, housing over 200 microelectronics-related companies. The inclusion of J2 Semiconductor’s facilities within this ecosystem promises to enhance synergy and facilitate knowledge exchange among industry stakeholders. Furthermore, Hong Kong is home to five universities ranked among the top 100 globally, with over 100 university researchers actively engaged in microelectronics research. This collaborative environment is poised to accelerate research and development efforts, particularly in the field of third-generation semiconductors.
Notably, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has unveiled plans to establish a Microelectronics Research and Development Institute in its recent Budget Speech. This initiative aims to strengthen partnerships with universities, R&D centres, and industry players, further expediting the translation of research outcomes into practical applications and bolstering the growth of the microelectronics industry.