The US Department of State recently announced a partnership with the India Semiconductor Mission, Ministry of Electronics and IT, Government of India to explore opportunities for growth and diversification in the global semiconductor ecosystem. This partnership is made possible under the International Technology Security and Innovation (ITSI) Fund, created by the CHIPS Act of 2022. The goal of this collaboration is to create a more resilient, secure, and sustainable global semiconductor value chain.
Kurt Campbell, US Deputy Secretary of State, highlighted the importance of expanding the US-India partnership, calling it one of the most strategically important efforts of the Biden-Harris administration. He emphasized the alignment between the two countries and their joint efforts to advance the US-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (ICET). Campbell noted that INDUS-X, an initiative launched just over a year ago, has accelerated strategic cooperation between the US and India in various sectors including space, semiconductors, telecommunications, artificial intelligence, quantum biotechnology, and clean energy.
Campbell also discussed the significance of deepening defence innovation cooperation between India and the US, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a critical advantage for the armed forces. Under the INDUS-X initiative, the US and India announced USD 1.2 million in funding to ten US and Indian companies for joint challenges. This funding aims to promote innovation, research, and development in critical technology areas. Campbell highlighted the US government’s significant investment in expanding the strategic partnership with India and emphasized the importance of pursuing a robust agenda to deepen cooperation.
The initial phase of the partnership between the US and India includes a comprehensive assessment of India’s existing semiconductor ecosystem, regulatory framework, workforce, and infrastructure needs. Key Indian stakeholders, including state governments, educational institutions, research centers, and private companies, are expected to participate in this analysis guided by the India Semiconductor Mission. The insights gained from this assessment will inform potential future joint initiatives to strengthen and grow India’s semiconductor industry.
The collaboration between the US and India in the semiconductor industry underscores the importance of ensuring the global semiconductor supply chain can meet the demands of the digital transformation currently underway. The manufacturing of essential products such as vehicles and medical devices relies on the strength and resilience of the semiconductor supply chain. Through the CHIPS Act and the ITSI Fund, the US Department of State is committed to promoting the development and adoption of secure and trusted telecommunications technologies, secure semiconductor supply chains, and other initiatives with allies and partners.
In conclusion, the partnership between the US and India in the semiconductor industry is a significant step towards creating a more secure and resilient global semiconductor ecosystem. By leveraging the strengths of both countries and aligning their strategic interests, they can work together to advance critical and emerging technologies, drive innovation, and strengthen their bilateral cooperation. The collaboration under the ITSI Fund and the CHIPS Act demonstrates a commitment to promoting secure and trusted telecommunications technologies and semiconductor supply chains for the benefit of both nations and the global economy.
