Singapore launches GaN hub to power next-gen semiconductors

Independent Singapore

6 hours ago

SINGAPORE: Singapore launched a new S$123 million semiconductor facility to boost its role in chip technologies and get a share of the growing gallium nitride (GaN) market.
The new centre, located in One North, is called the National Semiconductor Translation and Innovation Centre for Gallium Nitride (NSTIC GaN). With plans to start commercial operations in mid-2026, NSTIC GaN will offer wafer fabrication and prototyping services to local companies and researchers.
Dr Tan See Leng, Minister in charge of Energy and Science & Technology, said, 'In a world marked by strategic fragmentation, investing in GaN technologies improves our ability to compete globally and develop unique skills. This centre is a step forward in securing high-value semiconductor growth for Singapore.' GaN semiconductors' benefits
GaN semiconductors offer superior voltage and frequency performance with less heat output than silicon. This means they are crucial for compact electronic systems in 5G and 6G infrastructure. They also have applications for autonomous vehicles, satellite communications, and military radar due to improved energy efficiency and advanced technology.
It is the first local facility to offer both 6-inch GaN-on-Silicon Carbide and 8-inch GaN-on-Silicon wafer lines. This permits the production of both high-performance defence-grade electronics as well as commercial power devices. Wafer diameter affects chip output per batch, directly impacting cost and efficiency.
Dr Tan stressed: 'Access to local fabrication lowers capital barriers and speeds up time to market. SMEs and start-ups can now prototype and develop chips locally, without facing prohibitive upfront costs.'
A*STAR, DSO National Laboratories, and Nanyang Technological University (NTU) are spearheading the NSTIC GaN project as part of an initiative to strengthen Singapore's semiconductor ecosystem. Other nodes include an advanced photonics R&D centre and a $500 million advanced packaging facility in Tampines.
The launch also saw several agreements signed to support industry partnerships. A notable collaboration involves NSTIC GaN, DSO, and the local startup WaferLead, which will work together to develop high-quality silicon carbide substrates. This is a critical component in GaN wafer manufacturing.
Waferlead, which produces wafers for electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and data centres, expects that using NSTIC's shared infrastructure could yield capital expense savings ranging from $6 million to $10 million. Its CEO, Dr Sunil Wickramanayaka, shared: 'These savings can be invested in market expansion and product development.
Singapore is a key node in the global semiconductor industry. EDB estimates Singapore makes about 10% of global chips and 20% of semiconductor manufacturing equipment worldwide.
Semiconductors account for nearly 6% of the city-state's GDP and provides jobs for over 35,000 people. The industry benefits from Singapore's strategic location, reliable regulations, and skilled workers. Exploring GaN and other novel materials is part of the industry's efforts to remain competitive.