Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Bangladesh Can Become a Semiconductor Hub

The High-Stakes World of Semiconductor Manufacturing

The semiconductor manufacturing sector is renowned for its complexity, high stakes, and intense corporate competition. Innovation consistently drives demand, with every new technological advancement reshaping the industry. Currently, artificial intelligence (AI) is spearheading innovation and has the potential to propel the semiconductor industry into a new growth trajectory. Specialized AI-designed semiconductors are crucial for enabling AI applications. As the need for instant computing, seamless connectivity, and advanced sensing capabilities grows, the demand for AI-specific chips is set to soar.

Asia's Dominance in the Semiconductor IndustryAsia commands an impressive 90 percent market share in chip assembly and testing and houses over 75 percent of the world’s semiconductor fabrication capacity. Taiwan leads the industry, holding a 68 percent market share and hosting numerous cutting-edge chip manufacturing facilities. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) produces nearly 90 percent of the advanced chips for AI and quantum computing used today.

Bangladesh Can Become a Semiconductor Hub

India’s Ambitious Semiconductor Plans

India has made significant strides with its "Make in India" initiative and substantial investments in semiconductor plants, aiming to become a global semiconductor hub. The 2024 interim union budget saw a substantial increase in funding for semiconductor and display manufacturing support. The Indian semiconductor market, valued at $34.3 billion in 2023, is expected to surge to $100.2 billion by 2032. American chip giant Micron has pledged $825 million for a new facility in India, anticipated to create over 300,000 jobs by 2026.


Vietnam’s Strategy to Attract Semiconductor Investments

Amid the semiconductor competition between China and the United States, Vietnam is actively seeking investment by strengthening its semiconductor industry through tax breaks and incentives. Plans for grants and collaborative research with private firms like FPT are in place. Vietnam hosts Intel's main facility and aims to attract other major companies like Samsung and Nvidia. By 2030, Vietnam plans to train 50,000 engineers and has incorporated semiconductors into national development initiatives, positioning itself as a potential major player in the global semiconductor supply chain.

Bangladesh’s Emerging Semiconductor Industry

Bangladesh is witnessing the nascent emergence of its semiconductor industry, driven by global electronics demand and a deliberate push towards digitalization. Currently, the industry is primarily focused on low-end assembly and testing rather than high-end semiconductor manufacturing. To build a competitive semiconductor industry, Bangladesh must address critical infrastructure requirements.

Building a Skilled Workforce in Bangladesh

Improving technical education and training is crucial to developing a workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge. Collaborations with leading global educational institutions and professionals can facilitate this development. Establishing research centers specializing in semiconductor technology and providing grants for university and industry research are essential growth-promoting factors.

Financial Commitments and Public-Private Partnerships

Developing cutting-edge fabrication facilities requires significant financial commitments, achievable through public-private partnerships and incentives for foreign investment. Establishing a comprehensive supply chain, including machinery, components, and raw material vendors, is essential. Supporting startups and encouraging relevant companies to enter the market can help develop this ecosystem.

Policy Support and Investment Attraction

Implementing policies that support the semiconductor industry, such as tax incentives, favorable regulations, and intellectual property protection, is crucial for attracting and retaining investments.

Conclusion: Paving the Way for Bangladesh’s Semiconductor Future

Bangladesh has the potential to become a significant player in the global semiconductor industry. By addressing infrastructure needs, fostering technical education, encouraging research and development, and implementing supportive policies, Bangladesh can attract substantial investments and develop a competitive semiconductor sector.


Author: An business Analyst

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