Samsung Electronics Commits $73.3 Billion to AI Semiconductor Innovation
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Seoul, March 19 (NationPress) Samsung Electronics announced on Thursday its intention to invest over 110 trillion won (approximately US$73.3 billion) this year in the development and infrastructure for artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductors, aiming to bolster its dominance in the fiercely competitive market.
The leading global memory chip manufacturer revealed this strategy in a regulatory report, emphasizing its goal to secure a top-tier position amid the ongoing AI surge, as reported by the Yonhap news agency.
This investment represents a 21.7 percent increase from last year’s 90.4 trillion won and marks the highest annual expenditure in the company’s history, being the first occasion its yearly investment has surpassed 100 trillion won.
Additionally, Samsung intends to explore significant mergers and acquisitions in sectors such as robotics, medical technology, automotive electronics, and air conditioning solutions.
In light of the escalating demand for chips, Samsung is enhancing efficiency at its P4 plant located in the Pyeongtaek campus, south of Seoul.
The firm is also advancing the installation of essential equipment for its anticipated P5 production line.
Moreover, Samsung is constructing new manufacturing sites within its chip cluster in Yongin, south of Seoul.
In the United States, the company is establishing a new foundry in Taylor, Texas, with plans to commence operations by year-end.
Meanwhile, unionized employees at Samsung Electronics mentioned on Thursday that they will hold a press conference next week following a vote to initiate a general strike regarding performance-based bonuses.
The workers will convene near the residence of Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong in Seoul on Monday, outlining their demands for management to lift the cap on bonuses and implement a 7 percent wage increase, alongside greater transparency in the calculation of performance-based bonuses.
"The negotiations for wages in 2026, which have extended for several months, concluded without a consensus," the union stated. "As management did not accept our fair requests for policy improvements, we have resolved to initiate collective action."
The employees plan to demonstrate in Pyeongtaek, south of Seoul, on April 23, ahead of a scheduled strike set to take place from May 21 to June 7.