Japan’s Rapidus joins Imec for 2nm development

Rapidus, the newly founded Japanese chip manufacturer, has joined Imec’s Core Partner Program for advanced CMOS development. “Joining Imec’s Core Partner Program is a significant milestone for us. It provides Rapidus with access to Imec’s advanced technologies, system solutions, state-of-the-art 300mm pilot line and extensive partner network. International collaboration will be vital for us to attain our target of mass-producing 2-nanometer technology,” says Rapidus CEO Atsuyoshi Koike.

Backed by major Japanese high-tech companies including Sony, NEC and Toyota, Rapidus was founded last year to allow Japan to catch up in leading-edge chip manufacturing. The foundry endeavors to have a prototype 2nm production line ready by 2025 and move to full-swing production by the end of the decade. Koike previously estimated the project will require a total investment of roughly 33 billion euros.