Singapore Launches SG Semiconductor Initiative to Expand Advanced R&D and Manufacturing
A*STAR and EDB bring Singapore’s semiconductor capabilities under one national identity, with new collaborations spanning advanced packaging, silicon photonics, power electronics, GaN, MEMS and IC design.
Singapore has introduced a new national initiative, SG Semiconductor, to strengthen the global profile of its semiconductor industry and attract further investment in advanced research and manufacturing. Developed by the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) and the Economic Development Board (EDB), the initiative will present Singapore’s semiconductor research, manufacturing capabilities, infrastructure and skilled workforce under a unified national identity.
The initiative will initially focus on promoting public-sector R&D across seven technology areas, including advanced packaging, silicon photonics, power electronics, radio-frequency gallium nitride, MEMS, flat optics and integrated circuit design. The launch was accompanied by several new and expanded collaborations between A*STAR and major semiconductor companies, including Applied Materials, GlobalFoundries, KLA and Stats ChipPac.
Among the announcements was the fourth phase of the Applied Materials-ASTAR joint laboratory, involving a five-year expansion focused on technologies such as hybrid bonding, high-density interposers and advanced substrates for AI and high-performance computing applications. GlobalFoundries will also work with ASTAR on silicon photonics using 300mm wafers, targeting applications in high-performance computing, data communications and potentially quantum technologies.
The broader programme also includes efforts to strengthen semiconductor talent and industry partnerships. A*STAR highlighted the need for researchers, engineers and technicians with specialised skills, while the Singapore Institute of Technology is set to introduce a new undergraduate work-immersion model from 2027.
