The CEO of Imec, a leading microchips research center in Belgium, emphasized the need for coordination between the European Union and the United States regarding semiconductor subsidies. He expressed concern about the possibility of duplicating efforts and investments, stating that it would be the worst outcome of allocating substantial funds to the semiconductor industry.
Both the EU and the U.S. are investing billions of euros and dollars, through the European Chips Act and U.S. Chips Act, amounting to €43 billion and $52 billion respectively, to strengthen their positions in the global semiconductor value chain and bring manufacturing activities back to their respective regions.
The discussions took place during a meeting of the bi-annual EU-U.S. Trade and Technology Council in Leuven, where leaders from both sides agreed to extend the sharing of information on chips subsidies for another three years.
Imec, known for its unique position in the semiconductor industry as a research institute where global competitors collaborate, has also expanded its presence in the U.S. in anticipation of the country's efforts to establish its own semiconductor research and development center.
The U.S. has urged its EU partners to limit China's access to advanced microchips technology, while also imposing conditions on companies receiving funding under the U.S. Chips Act. Imec has affirmed its compliance with export restrictions and reduced its connections with China, particularly concerning cutting-edge chip technology. However, some ongoing projects with Chinese partners on less advanced technology are still being finalized.
Overall, the CEO emphasized the importance of synchronization and coordination in research and development efforts between the EU and the U.S., especially in the context of semiconductor subsidies.
