Enhancing semiconductor sector cooperation between India and Japan aims to bolster India's semiconductor infrastructure.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Japan marked the first significant interaction between the two nations since 2018. During his two-day stay, Modi focused on advancing technology collaboration, particularly in the semiconductor sector.
Kazuya Nakajo, Executive Vice President of the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), emphasized the opportunities for partnership. Nakajo stated that Japan is a leader in manufacturing semiconductor machinery and materials, supplying 50% of semiconductor materials and one-third of global machinery.
Tokyo Electron, a leading Japanese company in the semiconductor field, was visited by Prime Minister Modi. Nakajo concluded that such initiatives will lead to more kinds of mature collaboration, more high-tech collaboration, and more academic collaboration between the two nations.
Prime Minister Modi announced a focus on building a stronger technology base at home, with semiconductors playing a key role. To address this, Modi has created a new policy to build a more resilient supply chain and become self-reliant in the manufacturing sector, advanced manufacturing sector.
Semiconductor-related investments in India have grown significantly, from 22 in four years (2017-2020) to 58 in the following years (2021-2024). Japanese companies such as Sony, Renesas Electronics, and Denso have invested in semiconductor manufacturing and R&D in India in recent years. Sony, for instance, has plans to expand its image sensor production in India, while Renesas aims to increase its collaboration with Indian tech firms.
Nakajo acknowledged that Japan was relatively late in tapping India's talent pool. He mentioned that Europe and America have been attracting Indian talent for longer periods than Japan. However, Japanese companies are now starting to consider creating a global creation center in India.
PM Modi expressed gratitude to Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba for the warmth extended during the visit. He described the visit as "productive," stating that it will be remembered for the productive outcomes that will benefit both nations.
In a post, PM Modi said that this visit to Japan will strengthen mutual exchange between the two countries. He also highlighted the positive outcomes achieved during his engagements in Japan, including Japan's commitment to manufacturing in India.
Japan is trying to create a more livable society for Indian nations and a better living environment for them. By investing in semiconductor manufacturing and R&D in India, Japan aims to contribute to India's technological growth and help create a more self-reliant India.
Prime Minister Modi concluded his visit, describing it as a step towards a stronger partnership between India and Japan. The future of technology collaboration between the two nations looks promising, with more initiatives expected to be announced in the coming years.
