Semiconductor Industry
10% of the world's semiconductors are produced on Kyushu Island in Southwestern Japan. As the commercial and logistical capital of Kyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture holds a leading position in the international microelectronics industry.
Fukuoka is home to a vibrant semiconductor cluster comprised of the research and development centers of major semiconductor manufacturers such as Sony, NEC Electronics, Toshiba, Hitachi and Panasonic, as well as start-up companies with groundbreaking technologies. Collaborative research and development between companies and universities including Kyushu University, Kyushu Institute of Technology, Fukuoka University, Waseda University and others is common.
Fukuoka and the larger Kyushu region collectively host over 600 companies in the semiconductor device assembly and packaging industry. North American companies can meet these companies at the annual International Workshop on Microelectronics Assembling and Packaging which is held in Fukuoka. Opportunities for poster and paper presentations are available.
Fukuoka also offers a robust market for microelectronics through a strong automotive industry and the growing percentage of electronics used in cars. Nissan Motor and Toyota Motor factories are operating at full capacity, with annual output reaching one million vehicles in 2006. Fukuoka fully expects alliances between semiconductor firms and automobile manufacturers to be vital to the production of next-generation automobiles.
Fukuoka has a wealth of engineering talent. Over 6,000 students graduate annually from universities of science and technology in Fukuoka. In addition, the Fukuoka System LSI College, a technical training center staffed with world-class instructors, trains students in technologies and skills related to digital, analog and firmware design that can be immediately put to use at the work site.
Opportunities
Licensing opportunities for companies seeking new technologies from Fukuoka start-ups
Potential design-in opportunities for North American companies seeking access to Japanese device manufacturers
Low-cost office space and access to pay-per-use lab space for North American semiconductor start-ups
Collaboration opportunities for companies offering skills or technology-based training related to semiconductor design
Superior-quality semiconductor equipment manufacturers offering contract manufacturing services to North American companies
Presentation opportunities at the annual International Workshop on Microelectronics Assembly and Packaging
For additional information or to request a free consultation, please contact us.