Micron Expands Semiconductor Factory in Hiroshima, Japan
Micron Technology is investing 1.5 trillion yen to expand its factory in Hiroshima, Japan, increasing production of advanced memory chips, including AI-focused HBM.
Micron Technology, a major semiconductor manufacturer, is undertaking a significant expansion of its facility in Hiroshima, Japan, with an investment totaling 1.5 trillion yen (approximately $10 billion USD). The expansion is earmarked for the production of advanced memory chips, specifically High Bandwidth Memory (HBM), which are critical components for artificial intelligence applications.
The project is expected to be operational by 2028. This move aims to capitalize on the surging demand for AI hardware, positioning Micron to supply essential memory components to major technology firms, including AI chip designer Nvidia.
The Japanese government, through its Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), is supporting the expansion with subsidies of up to 500 billion yen (approximately $3.3 billion USD). This financial backing underscores Japan's strategic focus on revitalizing its domestic semiconductor manufacturing capabilities.
Micron's CEO, Sanjay Mehrotra, highlighted the significance of the Hiroshima facility, noting that it has already produced initial wafers for HBM. The expansion is seen as a key step in solidifying Micron's role in the global supply chain for cutting-edge AI and computing technologies.