In the fierce competition in the global semiconductor industry, in addition to giants such as TSMC, Samsung and Intel, some niche Japanese manufacturers are achieving technological hegemony in some links of the industrial chain with their unique technological advantages and becoming "hidden champions" in the industry. Today, we're going to talk about the stories of these manufacturers.
The transformation and revival of Japan's semiconductor industry
After peaking in the 90s of the 20th century, Japan's semiconductor industry is facing a long-term recession. However, in recent years, as uncertainty in the global supply chain has increased, Japan has begun to revitalize its own semiconductor industry, especially in the field of materials and equipment.
The Rise of the Hidden Champions
- Ferrotec: As a leading global supplier of semiconductor products and solutions, Ferrotec is a leading supplier of wafer production equipment, with a market share of up to 60% in China.
- Letterpress Printing: With a market share of more than 30% in the semiconductor photomask market, Letterpress is the absolute leader in this field.
- Lasertec: Focusing on EUV inspection systems, Lasertec has a near monopoly on the market for EUV-based inspection systems, and its share price has risen by more than 1,500% over the past five years.
Figure: The road to technological dominance of those niche Japanese semiconductor manufacturers
The secret to technological dominance
The reason why Japanese manufacturers can achieve technological hegemony in some links of the semiconductor industry chain is mainly due to the following aspects:
1. Technological innovation and R&D investment: Japanese manufacturers pay attention to long-term R&D investment and constantly promote technological progress.
2. Deep cultivation of the industrial chain: focus on specific links of the industrial chain, and achieve technological leadership through deep cultivation.
3. Globalization strategy: Through global layout, close cooperation with the international market to expand the scope of business.
Data case analysis
- Market share: For example, two Japanese companies, Shin-Etsu Chemical and SUMCO, have more than 50% of the global market share in the silicon wafer field.
- Technology leadership: Lasertec's EUV detection systems are widely adopted by foundries such as TSMC around the world, demonstrating its technological leadership.
- Market influence: In the global photosensitive materials market in 2019, the Japanese government's ban on South Korea and the cutting off of photoresist and other materials almost made Samsung, SK hynix and other companies face difficulties, which reflects Japan's market influence in the field of semiconductor materials.
Summary
The revival of Japan's semiconductor industry has not been easy, but through the efforts of a series of "hidden champions", Japan is rebuilding its competitiveness in the global semiconductor industry. The success of these manufacturers has not only provided new impetus for the transformation of Japan's semiconductor industry, but also made an important contribution to the stability and development of the global semiconductor industry chain.
