The U.K. on Friday unveiled a £1B ($1.24B) investment plan to strengthen its semiconductor industry and improve its chipmaking capabilities over the next decade. The funding is a key part of the country's newly launched National Semiconductor Strategy, which aims to bolster its global competitiveness in technology and science. - The 20-year strategy aims to secure chip supplies and foster growth in the U.K.'s chip sector, which has faced supply chain disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
- Between 2023 and 2025, the U.K. will distribute up to £200M for chip-related infrastructure improvements and research and development, with the remaining £800M allocated by the end of 2033
- The U.K.'s strategy also emphasizes international cooperation, including a newly announced partnership with Japan.
- Critics have argued that the U.K.'s investment is significantly less than chip subsidies offered in the U.S. and EU.
- By comparison, the U.S. Chips and Science Act designates $52.7B specifically for semiconductor manufacturing, R&D, and workforce development.
- However, U.K. officials said the amount of proportionate, as the government doesn't see the need to invest in costly chip manufacturing plants.
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