Switzerland’s semiconductor industry strengthens its competitiveness
In collaboration with a number of local educational institutions, Switzerland’s semiconductor industry is implementing a new project. The project involves establishing a national center in the country to develop and manufacture microchips. The project aims to maintain Switzerland’s competitiveness amid the growing demand for technology. This project will also strengthen the country’s position in the global semiconductor supply chain.
The Chip FabLab center will be located in the Zurich Innovation Park. Its activities will focus on designing and producing chips for key industries, including:
– robotics;
– autonomous transport;
– satellite communications;
– quantum computing.
The project is currently seeking government support. Implementing it will require significant investment, and assistance from the government will offset some of the costs.
The creators of Chip FabLab are drawing on successful examples from other countries, including Finland and Belgium. Similar centers in those countries have already proven effective in stimulating industry growth.
It bears mentioning that this project is a strategically important step for Switzerland. According to Jürg Leithold of ETH Zurich, Switzerland should not miss the opportunity to establish a center like this. Otherwise, Switzerland risks falling significantly behind other countries.
Industry features
The semiconductor industry has many features. Each stage of production requires specialized facilities and highly precise equipment. Consequently, companies invest heavily in production and constantly innovate.
To reduce costs and increase efficiency, the Chip FabLab team will focus on producing small batches of chips. This format solves specific technological problems and produces products on an ad hoc basis. Nevertheless, the startup requires substantial investments: approximately CHF 100 million for launch and around CHF 300 million for the complete implementation of all processes.
The project’s authors consider attracting investment to be one of their primary tasks. However, difficulties may arise at this stage that could slow down the launch of the center. The Swiss semiconductor industry’s development is primarily driven by scientific research and innovation rather than direct capital investment. This specificity reduces the sector’s flexibility and hinders its ability to respond quickly to market demands. In some cases, the lack of investment limits growth.
How Chip FabLab will work
The project team plans to build a 4,000-square-meter sterile facility. This infrastructure will protect microchips from dust and contamination during production. Construction should take about five years.
The center will lease space and equipment to third-party companies, as well as manufacture its own products. This approach will support the local economy and establish a foundation for new startups.
