[News] Micron Reportedly Set to Build New DRAM Plant in Hiroshima, Japan, Operational Expected by End of 2027

According to a report from a Japanese media outlet The Daily Industrial News, it reported that Micron Technology plans to build a new plant in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan, for the production of DRAM chips, aiming to begin operations as early as the end of 2027.

The report estimates the total investment to be between JPY 600 billion and 800 billion (roughly USD 5.1 billion). Construction of the new plant is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the installation of extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography equipment.

The Japanese government has approved subsidies of up to JPY 192 billion (roughly USD 1.3 billion) to support Micron’s production of next-generation chips at its Hiroshima plant. The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry stated last year that this funding would help Micron incorporate ASML’s EUV equipment, with these chips being crucial for powering generative AI, data centers, and autonomous driving technology.

Micron initially planned to have the new plant operational by 2024, but this schedule has evidently been adjusted due to unfavorable market conditions. Micron, which acquired Japanese DRAM giant Elpida in 2013, employs over 4,000 engineers and technicians in Japan.

Beyond 2025, Japan is set to witness the emergence of several new plants, including Micron Technology’s new 1-gamma (1γ) DRAM production facility in Hiroshima Prefecture.

JSMC, a foundry subsidiary of Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC), is collaborating with Japan’s financial group SBI to complete construction by 2027 and begin chip production thereafter.

Additionally, Japanese semiconductor startup Rapidus plans to commence production of 2-nanometer chips in Hokkaido by 2027.

Japan’s resurgence in the semiconductor arena is palpable, with the Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry fostering multi-faceted collaborations with the private sector. With a favorable exchange rate policy aiding factory construction and investments, the future looks bright for exports.

However, the looming shortage of semiconductor talent in Japan is a concern. In response, there are generous subsidy programs for talent development.

Read more

• [News] A Subsidy Wave Sweeping in the US, Europe and Japan amid the Cut-Throat Chip Competition
• [News] Micron Slightly Raises Capital Expenditure for 2024, HBM Expected to Further Drive Revenue Growth in 2025

(Photo credit: Micron)