[News] Sony and Kioxia Reportedly Plan Additional Investments in Chip Foundry Rapidus

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Japanese government-backed foundry Rapidus aims to begin mass production of 2nm chips by 2027. According to a MoneyDJ report, existing shareholders like Sony and NAND Flash giant Kioxia are reportedly considering additional investments to support the company’s funding needs.

The Japan Times cited sources confirming that Sony and other current investors will provide further financial backing for Rapidus, which is focused on domestic production of next-generation semiconductors. These investments will be coordinated with financial institutions and the central government to help the Tokyo-based firm secure the necessary capital to start production by 2027.

Rapidus is aiming to raise ¥100 billion from the private sector and asked shareholders to confirm additional contributions, with a response deadline set for Friday.

Investors in Rapidus include Sony Group, NEC, NTT, Kioxia, MUFG Bank, Toyota, SoftBank, and Denso, with combined investments totaling ¥7.3 billion. Sony, NEC, NTT, and MUFG Bank are expected to participate in the additional funding round.

In the financial sector, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking, Mizuho Bank, and the Development Bank of Japan are also considering becoming new shareholders, with combined investments from these three lenders and MUFG Bank expected to reach ¥25 billion. The additional funding from both financial and non-financial companies is likely to begin as early as 2025.