Taiwan is doubling down on its semiconductor dominance with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) breaking ground on a new Advanced Semiconductor R&D Center in Hsinchu. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2027, the center will house Taiwan’s first research institution-led 12-inch advanced pilot line, bridging the gap between research and commercialization for small and mid-sized firms. This initiative, jointly developed with Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs, National Development Council, and National Science and Technology Council, aims to support emerging technologies like AI chips and silicon photonics. “This R&D center will expedite the development of a resilient, autonomous, and next-generation semiconductor innovation ecosystem in Taiwan,” said Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin, building on Taiwan’s 8.36% economic growth last year fueled by the semiconductor and AI industries.
ITRI Establishes 12-Inch Pilot Line for IC Design & Validation
Taiwan’s semiconductor industry is poised for further acceleration with the establishment of a novel research and development center spearheaded by the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). The Advanced Semiconductor R&D Center, currently under construction at ITRI’s Hsinchu headquarters, will feature a first-of-its-kind 12-inch pilot line operated by a research institution, alongside upgraded 8-inch facilities. This integrated environment is designed to seamlessly connect chip design, manufacturing, packaging, and testing, aiming to significantly reduce barriers to entry for smaller companies. “This is a key initiative for SMEs and startups,” stated Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin, emphasizing the center’s one-stop service platform.
The center’s core functions will encompass innovative IC design verification, advanced process development, and localized validation of equipment and materials, with completion slated for the end of 2027. ITRI intends to deliver 28–90 nm back-end-of-line process R&D and pilot production services, with a goal of shortening product development cycles by approximately 30%.
Taiwan’s Semiconductor Growth Fueled by 28-90nm R&D Services
The Advanced Semiconductor R&D Center will provide 28-90 nm back-end-of-line process R&D and pilot production services, with the goal of shortening product development cycles by approximately 30%.
Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI)
