Vietnam ended 2023 on a positive note, buoyed by encouraging signs that could propel the nation towards its ambitious goal of advancing the semiconductor industry.
Among the notable indicators was the prominence of ‘semiconductor’ and ‘chip’ as the most-discussed keywords in the local economy throughout 2023.
In pursuit of deeper engagement in the global supply chain and international economic integration, Vietnam has diligently worked to attract investments in semiconductor and chip manufacturing industries, forging partnerships with leading nations in these fields.
During U.S. President Joe Biden’s state visit to Vietnam in September last year, the Southeast Asian country elevated its bilateral relations with the U.S. to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening doors for enhanced collaboration between Vietnam and top U.S. chip manufacturers.
The U.S. sees promise in Vietnam as a partner in ensuring diversity and resilience in the semiconductor supply chain. “By leveraging Vietnam’s strengths in assembly, testing, and packaging, this collaboration aims to identify new investment opportunities and bolster technical expertise in both nations,” stated the U.S. State Department.
Apart from the U.S., the Netherlands – another key player in the semiconductor industry – has shown interest in partnering with Vietnam in this sector.
The management authority of Saigon Hi-Tech Park in Ho Chi Minh City granted an investment registration certificate to BE Semiconductor Industries N.V. (Besi), a Dutch chip equipment manufacturer, on November 2, 2023.
This certificate enables Besi to establish a semiconductor equipment component manufacturing facility in Saigon Hi-Tech Park by 2025. The Dutch company plans to install machinery and equipment at the factory in 2024, with operations slated to commence in 2025.
In addition to Intel Corporation, numerous other multinational corporations, including Samsung Semiconductor, Qualcomm, Texas Instruments, SK hynix, Hayward Quartz Technology Inc., Synopsys Inc., and NXP Semiconductors, have directed investments towards Vietnam’s semiconductor industry.
