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Japanese semiconductor sector gains momentum from AI demand and supply chain diversification
Friday, March 13, 2026 at 11:39 PM
The Japanese semiconductor industry is experiencing a structural shift in demand driven by AI, which is accelerating market growth. Japan is becoming a key destination for global supply chain diversification and resilience, supported by domestic projects like Rapidus and the JASM venture by TSMC.
Context
As of March 2026, the Japanese semiconductor sector is driving a significant market rally, with 70% of the Nikkei’s recent climb to record highs above 50,000 attributed to AI and chip-related stocks. Under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, Japan is positioning itself as a critical global hub for supply chain diversification through strategic partnerships with TSMC and the state-backed venture Rapidus. These initiatives aim to move beyond traditional hardware niches into cutting-edge fabrication, supported by aggressive government subsidies totaling trillions of yen.
In a major shift toward high-end production, TSMC is expanding its JASM operations in Kumamoto to include 3nm process technology to meet surging demand for AI and autonomous driving. Meanwhile, Rapidus is targeting mass production of 2nm chips in Hokkaido by 2027. This revival is underpinned by a "friend-shoring" strategy designed to enhance economic security and reduce global reliance on Taiwanese manufacturing amid ongoing geopolitical tensions with China.
Sources (12)
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