Latest news with #MkhitarHayrapetyan
Forbes
01-08-2025
- Business
- Forbes
How To Enter Emerging Semiconductor Hubs Strategically
Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, Minister of High-Tech Industry of the Republic of Armenia. The semiconductor industry has become a paradox of innovation and vulnerability. Ninety percent of the world's most advanced chips are fabricated in a single East Asian corridor. That extreme concentration turns every typhoon, shipping backlog or political flare-up into a global tech crisis. Governments and companies alike are now in a race to diversify. From Vietnam to Greece, a new generation of 'emerging hubs' is attracting interest. But while press releases come fast, progress often doesn't. Many initiatives stall once the reality behind headline numbers comes into focus. To move beyond announcements and toward successful execution, tech leaders need a new framework, one that accounts not just for costs and incentives but for the structural, human and geopolitical dynamics that shape long-term viability. Here is a strategic framework I have developed while advising companies on global expansion, including recent work in Armenia, where NVIDIA and Firebird recently announced a $500 million AI supercomputing infrastructure. 1. Infrastructure Today Vs. Development Tomorrow One of the most common mistakes in evaluating new markets is focusing solely on what's already built. That can be misleading. What matters more is a country's ability to scale the right infrastructure within your investment timeline. For example, I like to explain that while Armenia may lack legacy foundries, it boasts reliable nuclear power, strategic mineral access and a deep engineering tradition. These are not short-term fixes. But if your timeline allows, such long-range assets often matter more than current real estate. Ask: Is the location merely cheap, or does it have the right foundation to build a modern, sustainable tech ecosystem? 2. Talent Pipelines Beyond The Obvious Too many feasibility studies stop at headcount. A better question is: How deep is the bench? Look at historical STEM investments. Scrutinize diaspora talent that could be repatriated. Assess the strength of local universities and their collaboration with industry. Understand cultural attitudes toward engineering careers—not just whether people are available, but whether they are inspired to build. AI and semiconductor industries demand continuous talent renewal. A one-time training bootcamp won't cut it. 3. Specialized Due Diligence For Emerging Ecosystems Conventional due diligence processes are designed for mature markets. They often fail in emerging ones. You need a different lens, one that accounts for volatility and still reveals genuine upside: In both AI data centers and chip fabs, electricity can make up around 20% of total costs. But it's not just about price—it's about stability. Rolling blackouts or sudden rate hikes can destroy profitability. Investigate grid capacity, fuel diversification and forward-looking energy strategies. Consider whether the country is plugged into global value chains. Are there free trade agreements? How efficient is customs? What protections exist for IP? Can capital flow in and out freely? The more these systems resemble developed economies, the less friction you'll encounter at scale. 4. How To Enter Without Overcommitting The most resilient expansion strategies follow a phased approach. Don't start with a megafab. Start with talent development. Sponsor university labs. Run a pilot assembly line. Test logistics. This builds internal knowledge while creating local goodwill. Emerging markets may lack direct experience in semiconductors or AI—but often have untapped technical potential. Partner with institutions. Offer apprenticeships. Build mentorship networks. These programs create not just workers, but advocates. In emerging hubs, the state is often an active economic partner. Understand how policy is shaped. Join local advisory councils. Help define standards. The deeper your relationship, the more influence you will have when policies shift. Mitigating Risk Without Killing Momentum Expansion in emerging markets will always carry risk. But the companies that prepare for it without being paralyzed by it are the ones that win. Here are some factors to keep in mind: • Operational Resilience: Establish supplier redundancy. Create backup infrastructure. Develop cross-trained teams to respond to shocks. Financial Hedging: Balance local revenues and costs to protect against currency swings. Maintain relationships with multiple banks. Monitor capital controls and taxation updates. Exit Optionality: Design your investment for flexibility. Can equipment be moved or repurposed? Are your IP rights clearly delineated? Who can you sell to, partner with or hand off to if you exit? Strategic Takeaways The path to successful global expansion involves more than choosing the right location—it's about developing the right approach. Here are a few considerations: Companies should begin by forming cross-functional teams that combine technical, geopolitical and financial expertise to evaluate target markets holistically. Before making capital-intensive commitments, it's wise to initiate local partnerships. These early collaborations build credibility and uncover ground-level realities. At the same time, launching flexible pilot programs can generate vital insights and help organizations adapt quickly as they scale. This isn't just about reducing costs or chasing incentives. It's about shaping the next phase of global tech infrastructure. Done right, expansion into new hubs isn't a hedge—it's a competitive moat. The companies building genuine capabilities in emerging markets—investing in people, transferring technology, co-creating ecosystems—will gain advantages no one can replicate overnight. The Bigger Picture The semiconductor and AI industries are at an inflection point. Geographic concentration has gone from an efficiency advantage to a strategic liability. The shift toward emerging tech hubs isn't just a backup plan—it's the foundation for a more resilient, distributed innovation ecosystem. But diversification alone isn't a strategy. Success will come to those who do more than follow the trend. It will come to companies that invest early, build local capabilities and turn uncertainty into a competitive advantage. The future of global tech won't be written in a single region. It will be built across dozens of rising ecosystems, from Southeast Asia to Eastern Europe and beyond. The real question for executives isn't should we expand—but how will we lead? Forbes Technology Council is an invitation-only community for world-class CIOs, CTOs and technology executives. Do I qualify?
See - Sada Elbalad
13-06-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Armenia to Launch $500M AI Factory with NVIDIA
By Ahmad El-Assasy In a bold step toward becoming a global hub for artificial intelligence, Armenia has announced the construction of a $500 million AI factory in partnership with U.S. tech giant NVIDIA, investment group Firebird, and Team Group. The facility, set to be the largest AI initiative in the region, is scheduled to begin operations by 2026. Minister of High-Tech Industry Mkhitar Hayrapetyan described the initiative as a 'historic leap' for Armenia, positioning the country as a key innovator in the global AI revolution. 'This is not just progress — it's a transformative leap. Armenia is stepping into the global AI revolution as a creator, builder, and leader,' Hayrapetyan said. A Regional AI Powerhouse The AI facility will be equipped with thousands of NVIDIA Blackwell GPUs and backed by over 100 megawatts of infrastructure power, making it one of the most advanced in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus. More than just a data center, the project will serve as a comprehensive AI research, education, and innovation hub, empowering Armenian engineers, scientists, and students to drive digital transformation at home. NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang stated: 'AI factories are the infrastructure of the 21st century. Our collaboration with Armenia will help build critical capabilities and unlock new economic and technological opportunities across the region.' Creating Jobs and Driving Innovation The project is expected to create thousands of high-skill jobs, attract foreign investment, and reverse the brain drain trend by providing local opportunities for Armenia's brightest minds. The Armenian government sees this as a strategic investment in long-term prosperity. Firebird co-founder and CEO Razmig Hovaghimian called it a 'launchpad for innovation': 'From Armenia to the world, we're building a platform for robotics, science, and AI development in partnership with top global universities.' Team Group, which runs Armenia's national telecom operator "Team Telecom Armenia" and is a stakeholder in Georgia's SkyTel, will provide the digital infrastructure and expertise needed to bring the project to life. 'This is a testament to Armenia's potential to become a regional leader in information technology and AI,' said Team Group co-founder Alexander Yesayan. Global Partnerships, Local Impact The Aviean Foundation, led by Noubar Afeyan, CEO of Flagship Pioneering, will also join as a founding investor and strategic advisor to Firebird. Afeyan emphasized the need for long-term global collaboration in making Armenia a visible player in the AI ecosystem. U.S. Ambassador to Armenia Kristina Kvien welcomed the initiative: 'We are excited about the potential for U.S. AI and tech exports to accelerate Armenia's innovation economy. Companies like NVIDIA are ideal partners for Armenia's transformation.' This landmark project reflects a strong synergy between government policy, private tech leadership, and global cooperation — all aimed at establishing Armenia as a vital AI and digital hub in the region. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks News Shell Unveils Cost-Cutting, LNG Growth Plan Videos & Features Video: Trending Lifestyle TikToker Valeria Márquez Shot Dead during Live Stream Technology 50-Year Soviet Spacecraft 'Kosmos 482' Crashes into Indian Ocean News 3 Killed in Shooting Attack in Thailand
Mid East Info
18-02-2025
- Politics
- Mid East Info
Experts and Specialists Discuss Misinformation and Influence Operations at the International Defence Conference 2025
The second session of the International Defence Conference 2025 focussed on 'Disinformation and Influence Operations: The Weaponisation of Information in Modern Conflicts,' highlighting the intersection of technology and politics, where information has become a powerful tool in modern conflicts. Panellists discussed disinformation tactics, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing misinformation campaigns, and their impact on the stability of societies and political systems. The session examined the techniques used by state and non-state actors, the influence of AI and deepfake technology in misinformation campaigns, the ethical implications of using information as a weapon, and the role of social media platforms in spreading disinformation. It also delved into strategies for detecting and countering misinformation, as well as collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society organisations to build a resilient information environment. H.E. Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, Minister of High-Tech Industry, Republic of Armenia, emphasised that Armenian companies are making significant investments in AI solutions. However, while AI brings immense advancements, it also introduces new risks and challenges, making public-private partnerships essential. He stressed that governments must collaborate with civil society to combat fake news and enhance media literacy. Investing in research, development, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks is crucial to mitigating these risks. He also highlighted Armenia's recent accession to the Paris Declaration, reinforcing its commitment to global cooperation in addressing AI-driven threats. Vice Admiral (Ret.) Kevin Donegan, Former US NAVCENT & Fifth Fleet Commander, Senior Advisor, TRENDS US, noted that while misinformation is not a new phenomenon, its scale and speed have increased dramatically. Both state and non-state actors exploit misinformation to gain strategic advantages, including in global supply chains. Effective countermeasures require trusted information sources, robust cybersecurity policies, and public-private sector partnerships. He added that legislation, such as criminalising deepfake misinformation, can be helpful but is not sufficient on its own. Public awareness, education, and open dialogue are equally critical. He commended the UAE for providing a platform for such discussions and stressed the urgency of taking swift action to safeguard truth and trust in information sources. Liisa Past, Cyber Security & Strategic Communication Expert, Former National Cyber Director, Estonia, described the evolving landscape of information manipulation as 'a world of mutual assured doubt.' She noted that AI is both a threat and a tool, as it enables fake content while also aiding in the detection and countering of false narratives. Meanwhile, Ayesha Manzoor Wattoo, Director General, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority, PEMRA, warned of the detrimental consequences of misinformation, particularly in elections, public health, and social stability. She pointed out that false propaganda in Pakistan has eroded trust in democracy, contributed to vaccine hesitancy in rural areas, and had spillover effects in Myanmar and India. To combat this, workshops and grassroots initiatives are being conducted to educate journalists and the public on fact-checking and verifying information before spreading misinformation. The conference, themed 'Defence Reimagined: Innovation, Integration and Resilience' is organised by ADNEC Group in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council. It brings together high-ranking government officials, defence policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, and representatives of multinational corporations. The International Defence Conference 2025 witnessed high-level international participation, attracting prominent global figures in defence, economics, and technology, as well as senior military leaders from various nations.
Zawya
16-02-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Experts and specialists discuss misinformation and influence operations at the International Defence Conference 2025
Abu Dhabi: The second session of the International Defence Conference 2025 focussed on 'Disinformation and Influence Operations: The Weaponisation of Information in Modern Conflicts,' highlighting the intersection of technology and politics, where information has become a powerful tool in modern conflicts. Panellists discussed disinformation tactics, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in advancing misinformation campaigns, and their impact on the stability of societies and political systems. The session examined the techniques used by state and non-state actors, the influence of AI and deepfake technology in misinformation campaigns, the ethical implications of using information as a weapon, and the role of social media platforms in spreading disinformation. It also delved into strategies for detecting and countering misinformation, as well as collaboration between governments, the private sector, and civil society organisations to build a resilient information environment. H.E. Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, Minister of High-Tech Industry, Republic of Armenia, emphasised that Armenian companies are making significant investments in AI solutions. However, while AI brings immense advancements, it also introduces new risks and challenges, making public-private partnerships essential. He stressed that governments must collaborate with civil society to combat fake news and enhance media literacy. Investing in research, development, infrastructure, and regulatory frameworks is crucial to mitigating these risks. He also highlighted Armenia's recent accession to the Paris Declaration, reinforcing its commitment to global cooperation in addressing AI-driven threats. Vice Admiral (Ret.) Kevin Donegan, Former US NAVCENT & Fifth Fleet Commander, Senior Advisor, TRENDS US, noted that while misinformation is not a new phenomenon, its scale and speed have increased dramatically. Both state and non-state actors exploit misinformation to gain strategic advantages, including in global supply chains. Effective countermeasures require trusted information sources, robust cybersecurity policies, and public-private sector partnerships. He added that legislation, such as criminalising deepfake misinformation, can be helpful but is not sufficient on its own. Public awareness, education, and open dialogue are equally critical. He commended the UAE for providing a platform for such discussions and stressed the urgency of taking swift action to safeguard truth and trust in information sources. Liisa Past, Cyber Security & Strategic Communication Expert, Former National Cyber Director, Estonia, described the evolving landscape of information manipulation as "a world of mutual assured doubt." She noted that AI is both a threat and a tool, as it enables fake content while also aiding in the detection and countering of false narratives. Meanwhile, Ayesha Manzoor Wattoo, Director General, Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority, PEMRA, warned of the detrimental consequences of misinformation, particularly in elections, public health, and social stability. She pointed out that false propaganda in Pakistan has eroded trust in democracy, contributed to vaccine hesitancy in rural areas, and had spillover effects in Myanmar and India. To combat this, workshops and grassroots initiatives are being conducted to educate journalists and the public on fact-checking and verifying information before spreading misinformation. The conference, themed 'Defence Reimagined: Innovation, Integration and Resilience' is organised by ADNEC Group in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence and the Tawazun Council. It brings together high-ranking government officials, defence policymakers, industry leaders, innovators, and representatives of multinational corporations. The International Defence Conference 2025 witnessed high-level international participation, attracting prominent global figures in defence, economics, and technology, as well as senior military leaders from various nations.
