Chinese chipmakers are turning to group tours in Japan to expand their network and navigate the increasingly strict export controls imposed by the US and its allies on semiconductor technology. These tours provide access to Japanese chip companies and trade fairs, such as Semicon Japan and Nepcon Japan. Chip Think Tank, a Chinese consulting company, is organizing an upcoming eight-day trip focused on exploring opportunities in Japan’s semiconductor equipment and materials industry. With strict travel restrictions due to the pandemic, these group tours have recently been revived to help Chinese chipmakers cope with export controls that aim to limit China’s progress in semiconductor technology.
These tours have become crucial for Chinese chipmakers seeking to strengthen existing relationships with Japanese suppliers and discover new technology companies to secure key equipment. Zykcyx Travel Agency organized a tour last month centered around Semicon Japan, which included visits to Advantest, a semiconductor test equipment manufacturer, and Disco, a prominent silicon wafer supplier. Trips like these offer Chinese professionals the chance to explore the latest developments in the industry and foster collaboration with Japanese experts.
Despite the export restrictions, Chinese companies continue to do significant business in Japan. Japanese companies hold a significant share of the market for different chipmaking tools. In fact, Chinese exhibitors were the second-largest group at the Semicon Japan show, after Japan itself. Shenyang Kingsemi, a leading Chinese semiconductor equipment maker, sent a delegation of more than 20 employees to make their debut at the show, signaling their commitment to expanding their supply chain and attracting international customers and talent.
However, there are concerns that some Chinese companies may be using these tours as an opportunity to gain knowledge about advanced Japanese technology for the purpose of reverse engineering. Japanese equipment companies have reported that Chinese chipmaking gear manufacturers have been approaching their supplier network with hopes of accessing proprietary technology. While it remains uncertain whether Chinese companies can surpass the US in this field, their ambition continues to grow.
In conclusion, these group tours in Japan provide Chinese chipmakers with essential networking opportunities and the chance to explore new technologies in the face of export restrictions. The collaboration between Chinese and Japanese companies could shape the future landscape of the semiconductor industry.
The source of the article is from the blog elblog.pl