Japan’s industry ministry has approved an additional $4 billion (¥631.5 billion) in funding for semiconductor company Rapidus, reinforcing the country’s push to rebuild its domestic chip manufacturing capabilities and strengthen supply chain resilience.
The funding is aimed at accelerating research and development efforts, particularly in advanced semiconductor technologies. With this latest injection, total government support for Rapidus’ R&D has reached approximately ¥2.35 trillion, highlighting the scale of Japan’s commitment to regaining leadership in the global semiconductor race.
Rapidus is currently focused on developing next-generation logic semiconductors at the 2-nanometre level, with plans to begin mass production by fiscal year 2027. The company is central to Japan’s broader semiconductor strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on foreign chipmakers and enhance technological self-sufficiency.
In addition to supporting Rapidus, the government, through its agency NEDO (New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization), will also fund semiconductor design projects involving companies such as Fujitsu and IBM Japan. This reflects a holistic approach to strengthening both manufacturing and design capabilities within the country’s chip ecosystem.
Founded in 2022 with backing from major Japanese corporations including Toyota, Sony, and SoftBank, Rapidus is positioned as a key player in Japan’s semiconductor revival strategy.
The latest funding decision underscores Japan’s urgency to compete in the global AI and semiconductor race, where nations are increasingly investing heavily in advanced chip production to support emerging technologies and secure supply chains.
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