China’s strides in 7nm chip technology could disrupt the global semiconductor industry, challenging US, Taiwan, and South Korean chipmakers. Watch closely.
The US chip ban on China has made it more difficult for Chinese companies to acquire the technology they need to produce advanced chips, such as 7nm chips. This is because the US is the world leader in chip manufacturing technology, and it controls the export of key chipmaking equipment and materials.
Despite the chip ban, China has made significant progress in this area in recent years. In 2023, Chinese semiconductor manufacturer Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation (SMIC) announced that it had successfully manufactured 7nm chips in its pilot production line.
This was a major breakthrough for China, as it made it the first country outside of the US, Taiwan, and South Korea to be able to produce 7nm chips.
SMIC’s ongoing development of 7nm chips signifies a promising step forward, even though they are currently in the early stages and not yet deployed in commercial products.
The company’s commitment to commence mass production of these chips in 2024 is a positive indicator of its dedication to advancing semiconductor technology. This forward-looking approach aligns with the broader industry’s pursuit of cutting-edge solutions, offering optimism for future technological advancements and innovation.
China’s strides in manufacturing 7nm chips mark a noteworthy milestone with the potential to reduce its dependence on imported chips. While this progress is commendable, it’s essential to recognize that the journey to catch up with leaders like the US, Taiwan, and South Korea in chip manufacturing technology is a long-term endeavor.
China’s commitment to advancing its chip industry signals a positive trajectory and highlights the nation’s dedication to technological self-sufficiency and innovation.
Chinese investment in manufacturing 7nm chips
China has made substantial investments in its domestic semiconductor industry, driven by the government’s goal to reduce reliance on imported chips.
These investments include direct subsidies to semiconductor companies, substantial funding for research and development, and support for the development of the semiconductor supply chain within China. These efforts have enabled Chinese firms to become more competitive globally and reduce dependency on foreign chip imports.
Notable examples of China’s investment in this sector include a massive $1.5 trillion investment plan in 2023, funding for specific semiconductor projects such as new chipmaking factories, and subsidies to support the development of advanced technologies like 7nm chips.
Technological development in chipmaking
China has made significant strides in developing its own chipmaking equipment and materials, reducing its reliance on imported technologies.
Notable achievements include Shanghai Micro Electronics Equipment (SMEE) unveiling a prototype 28nm lithography machine in 2023, marking China’s capability to produce essential chipmaking equipment. SMEE is also working on a 14nm lithography machine, a potential breakthrough that would place China among the elite few capable of producing such equipment globally.
In terms of materials, Chinese companies like Jiangnan Silicon Materials and Xintec have developed high-purity silicon wafers and advanced photoresists, respectively, crucial components for chip production.
While China still imports some chipmaking equipment and materials from the US, its substantial investments in developing indigenous capabilities pose a significant challenge to the US’s dominant position in the global semiconductor industry.
If China continues to make progress in this direction, it could emerge as a formidable competitor to the US in the global semiconductor market, a development closely monitored by the industry.
Acquisition of chipmaking technology
China has strategically acquired foreign chipmaking technology through several channels, including investments in foreign chipmakers like ASML and Infineon, the acquisition of foreign chipmaking companies such as Micron Technology‘s DRAM business and Aixtron, instances of technology acquisition from companies like Qualcomm and NXP Semiconductors, and obtaining technology from sanctioned entities like Fujian Jinhua Integrated Circuit Co., Ltd. (JICS).
For instance, in 2021, China’s state-owned chipmaker SMIC acquired Micron Technology’s DRAM business, granting access to Micron’s DRAM technology used in various electronic devices.
In 2022, Tsinghua Unigroup, another state-owned chipmaker, acquired German chipmaker Aixtron, gaining access to Aixtron’s lithography machines crucial for advanced chip production. In 2023, reports indicated China had acquired chipmaking technology from JICS, a company under US sanctions, allegedly through a front company.
China’s strategic acquisition of foreign chipmaking technology has garnered attention and interest from the US and other nations. There’s a sense of anticipation that China’s access to such technology could empower it to enhance its own chipmaking capabilities, potentially paving the way for healthy competition with the US in the global semiconductor market.
This development underscores the evolving landscape of innovation in the semiconductor industry, where diverse players contribute to its growth and evolution.
Chinese 7nm chips global impact
China’s progress in manufacturing 7nm chips is a major development, and it could have a significant impact on the global semiconductor industry. If China is able to mass produce 7nm chips at a competitive cost, it could become a major supplier of chips to the global market. This could put pressure on chipmakers in the US, Taiwan, and South Korea.
It is important to note that China is still in the early stages of developing its 7nm chip manufacturing capabilities. It is possible that China will face challenges in mass producing 7nm chips at a competitive cost. However, China’s progress in this area is significant, and it is something that the global semiconductor industry should be watching closely.