What Did Gujarat CM Discuss with Japan’s Iwate Vice Governor and JICA Delegation?
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Synopsis
On September 5, Gujarat's Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel welcomed Japan's Iwate Vice Governor Yutaka Sasaki and JICA. They focused on enhancing Gujarat's semiconductor ecosystem, which is rapidly evolving into a high-impact cluster with significant investments. This collaboration could lead to groundbreaking advancements in technology and economic growth for the region.
Key Takeaways
- Gujarat is positioning itself as a leader in the semiconductor industry.
- Significant investments from major companies are transforming the region.
- The partnership with Japan aims to enhance technical capabilities and foster innovation.
- The state's semiconductor policy is attracting substantial commitments.
- Long-term cooperation is essential for sustainable growth.
Gandhinagar, Sep 5 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Gujarat, Bhupendra Patel, extended a warm welcome to a delegation led by Yutaka Sasaki, the Vice Governor of Japan's Iwate Prefecture, alongside representatives from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The delegation's visit is linked to their participation in Semicon India 2025 in New Delhi, and they also explored the semiconductor industries located in the Dholera Special Investment Region (SIR).
During their discussions in Gandhinagar, the Japanese representatives commended the Gujarat government for its support of Japanese businesses and recognized the state's rapidly growing semiconductor industry.
CM Patel emphasized that, under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the bilateral relations between India and Japan are strengthening, positioning Gujarat to attract increased Japanese investments in the semiconductor sector.
He noted that Gujarat is already home to four semiconductor plants and is committed to becoming India's semiconductor hub. Patel advocated for enduring collaboration with Iwate Prefecture in areas such as technical assistance, skill enhancement through practical training, and collaborative R&D for high-quality products.
Key officials from the state, including Additional Chief Secretary M.K. Das, Finance Secretary T. Natarajan, and Science & Technology Secretary P. Bharti, participated in the discussions.
The semiconductor ecosystem in Gujarat is swiftly evolving into a high-impact cluster, fueled by substantial investments, infrastructure advancements, and supportive policies.
Through the Gujarat Semiconductor Policy 2022-2027, the state has garnered commitments exceeding Rs 1.25 lakh crore from prominent players, including Tata Electronics, Micron Technology, CG Power, and Kaynes Semicon.
The jewel in the crown is the Tata Electronics-led semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera, powered by an investment of Rs 91,000 crore, with the first chips anticipated by December 2026.
Meanwhile, Micron's ATMP facility in Sanand, part of its assembly, testing, marking, and packaging operation, is set for readiness by late 2024 and is currently in the cleanroom validation phase.
Kaynes Semicon's OSAT unit in Sanand, with a budget of Rs 3,300 crore, is expected to initiate pilot production by mid-2025 and commence full-scale manufacturing by early 2026.
In addition to manufacturing, infrastructure improvements include Micron's phased cleanroom rollout targeting late 2024 and global tech partnerships through Jabil's Rs 1,000 crore investment into silicon photonics.
Gujarat is also planning to expand its ecosystem with NextGen's proposed Rs 10,000 crore compound semiconductor fab in Dholera, supported by partnerships with Japanese and Taiwanese companies.
Point of View
The collaboration between Gujarat and Japan signifies a strategic move towards technological advancement and economic growth. The state's proactive approach in inviting foreign investment, particularly in the semiconductor sector, reflects a commitment to becoming a global player in technology manufacturing. This partnership is crucial for India's aspirations in the tech landscape, particularly amidst the ongoing global semiconductor race.
NationPress
05/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the visit from Japan's Iwate Vice Governor?
The visit underscores the strengthening bilateral relations between India and Japan, particularly in the semiconductor sector, and highlights Gujarat's emerging role as a hub for semiconductor manufacturing.
What investments has Gujarat secured in the semiconductor sector?
Gujarat has secured over Rs 1.25 lakh crore in commitments from major companies like Tata Electronics, Micron Technology, and Kaynes Semicon, indicating a robust semiconductor ecosystem.
When is the Tata Electronics semiconductor plant expected to start production?
The Tata Electronics-led semiconductor fabrication plant in Dholera is expected to produce its first chips by December 2026.
How does the Gujarat government plan to enhance its semiconductor ecosystem?
The government plans to deepen its ecosystem through investments, technical assistance, skill development, and collaborations with international firms.
What role does JICA play in this collaboration?
JICA supports Japan's international cooperation initiatives, providing technical assistance and facilitating partnerships for development projects in Gujarat's semiconductor sector.
