The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) from Taiwan has proposed to partner with the Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult in Newport, Wales, to set up pilot semiconductor packaging lines. The proposal includes consultation services for advanced packaging pilot lines, pre-production evaluation, and linking British semiconductor IP design firms with Taiwan’s semiconductor industry chain as part of the UK semiconductor strategy.
ITRI has expressed its willingness to become a dependable partner for the UK in creating mutually beneficial developments and building resilience in the supply chain. Dr. Shih-Chieh Chang, General Director of Electronic and Optoelectronic System Research Laboratories at ITRI, believes that Taiwan can assist British manufacturers in expanding their services' capacity in Taiwan, which would ultimately result in mutual benefits for both countries.
By introducing necessary resources to address existing gaps or offering consultation services covering design, packaging, and testing prior to mass production, ITRI can assist British firms in setting up relevant pilot lines. Doing so would help reduce the UK's dependence on external suppliers and boost the country's capability to support semiconductor trade and investment.
ITRI has collaborated with the Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult (CSA Catapult) on GaN semiconductor technologies. ITRI has also partnered with Oxford Instruments on HBLED, MEMS, Micro LED, silicon photonics, and nanoscale analysis equipment. The organization has worked with Imagination Technologies to jointly build a platform that assists startup companies in using key patents.
Therefore, the proposed partnership with the Compound Semiconductor Applications Catapult in Newport, Wales, can enable ITRI to enhance its relationship with the UK and support the country in developing a more self-reliant and sustainable semiconductor industry.
