The Yomiuri Shimbun has learned that the Japanese government will establish an organization composed of industry, government, and academia representatives in Kyushu by March 2022 to train human resources for the semiconductor industry. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s largest contract manufacturer of semiconductors who is building a facility in Kumamoto Prefecture, is expected to participate. The goal of the organization is to incorporate in-demand technologies and expertise into the field of education. The stable procurement of semiconductors has become an issue for Japan due to the global shortage. Kyushu is positioned as a domestic manufacturing base and aims to secure specialized human resources for the semiconductor industry.

Kyushu, called “Silicon Island,” produces about 40% of all semiconductors made in Japan. TSMC plans to start operations at its Kumamoto factory in 2024. Other semiconductor-related companies are expected to establish facilities near the TSMC plant, and there are concerns about a possible shortage of human resources. (Abridged)