Japan eyes $13bn in aid for chips, generative AI in stimulus budget

TSMC, Rapidus and Intel projects to receive support under METI proposal

TSMC's first plant in Japan's Kumamoto prefecture is under construction. (Photo by Toshiki Sasazu)

RIHO NAGAO, Nikkei staff writer

November 9, 2023 04:29 JST

TOKYO -- Japan's government will seek 2 trillion yen ($13.2 billion) in budget funding to support chip production and advances in generative AI technology, including more aid for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC).

The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) seeks about 650 billion yen in a proposed supplementary budget for Japanese chipmaker Rapidus' prototype production line and an Intel research center, as well as support for advanced semiconductor designs.