$2.83 Billion Investment: HKUST Launches Pioneering First GaN Epi-Wafer Pilot Line

Hong Kong is making a significant leap in semiconductor technology with a pioneering $2.83 billion investment to establish the first GaN epi-wafer pilot line.

Introduction

In a significant move for the microelectronics industry, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and MassPhoton Limited hosted a launch ceremony for Hong Kong’s first Ultra High Vacuum “Third-generation Semiconductor First GaN Epi-Wafer Pilot Line

This initiative, marking a crucial milestone in Hong Kong’s industrial advancement, aims to bolster the region’s position in the global semiconductor landscape.

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A Landmark Initiative

MassPhoton is set to establish its first global R&D center for GaN epitaxy process technology at the Hong Kong Science Park.

This includes developing an ultra-high vacuum production-scale GaN epitaxial wafer pilot line at InnoPark.

The project involves an investment of at least HK$200 million. It is expected to invigorate Hong Kong’s microelectronics innovation and technology ecosystem.

This initiative will lay a strong foundation for new industrialization in the region.

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Strategic Collaboration and Government Support

Key figures, including Professor Dong Sun, Secretary of Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, and Mr. Albert Wong, CEO of HKSTP, witnessed the collaboration between HKSTP and MassPhoton.

The formal agreement was signed by Mr. Eric Or, Acting Chief Corporate Development Officer at HKSTP, and Mr. Even Zhao, Chief Marketing Officer at MassPhoton.

In May 2024, the Finance Committee of the Hong Kong Legislative Council approved HK$2.83 billion to establish the “Hong Kong Microelectronics R&D Center.

This center will focus on third-generation semiconductor technologies, including GaN and silicon carbide (SiC).

Professor Dong Sun emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting advanced manufacturing industries and fostering collaboration among industry, academia, and research sectors.

Enhancing the I&T Ecosystem

Mr. Albert Wong highlighted HKSTP’s alignment with government initiatives to develop the microelectronics industry.

HKSTP, as Hong Kong’s largest I&T flagship, hosts over 200 companies engaged in microelectronics.

MassPhoton’s decision to establish operations at Science Park and InnoPark will significantly advance Hong Kong’s microelectronics industry and new industrialization initiatives.

Driving Innovation and Economic Growth

Dr. Eason Liao, CEO of MassPhoton Limited, expressed the company’s commitment to advancing GaN epitaxial technology in Hong Kong.

MassPhoton’s expertise in third-generation semiconductor processes and high-quality GaN epitaxial wafers will reduce the industry’s reliance on traditional silicon materials.

This initiative will create over 250 jobs in microelectronics. Positions will include roles in epitaxial wafer and equipment design, as well as production process development.

The project is expected to generate substantial economic value.

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Academic and Industry Synergy

Hong Kong boasts five universities ranked among the top 100 globally, with significant contributions to microelectronics research.

MassPhoton’s establishment in Science Park will bring capital, leading technology, and valuable experience, generating synergistic effects with other companies, the academic community, and the industry.

This collaboration is expected to drive the vigorous development of Hong Kong’s microelectronics ecosystem.

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Future Prospects

MassPhoton plans to establish Hong Kong’s first global R&D center for third-generation semiconductor GaN epitaxial growth technology.

This center will be located at the Hong Kong Science Park. It will develop an advanced 8-inch GaN epitaxial wafer process. The center will also create an equipment platform for manufacturing GaN optoelectronic and power devices.

Additionally, the company will collaborate with local tertiary institutions and partners on cutting-edge GaN research projects. The successful pilot line will pave the way for a GaN epitaxial mass production line in Hong Kong.

This breakthrough technology will accelerate the development of the semiconductor industry in the region. Development towards factory establishment and mass production, positioning Hong Kong as a leading player in the global semiconductor market and solidifying its foundation for new industrialization.

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Conclusion

The launch of Hong Kong’s first Ultra High Vacuum GaN Epi-Wafer Pilot Line is a major advancement in the microelectronics industry.

Substantial investment and government support back this initiative. Strategic collaboration will enhance Hong Kong’s I&T ecosystem.

This project will drive economic growth and position Hong Kong as a key player in third-generation semiconductor technologies.

As Hong Kong embraces new industrialization, this successful implementation will mark a significant milestone. It will help the region become an international I&T hub.

Kumar Priyadarshi
Kumar Priyadarshi

Kumar Priyadarshi is a prominent figure in the world of technology and semiconductors. With a deep passion for innovation and a keen understanding of the intricacies of the semiconductor industry, Kumar has established himself as a thought leader and expert in the field. He is the founder of Techovedas, India’s first semiconductor and AI tech media company, where he shares insights, analysis, and trends related to the semiconductor and AI industries.

Kumar Joined IISER Pune after qualifying IIT-JEE in 2012. In his 5th year, he travelled to Singapore for his master’s thesis which yielded a Research Paper in ACS Nano. Kumar Joined Global Foundries as a process Engineer in Singapore working at 40 nm Process node. He couldn’t find joy working in the fab and moved to India. Working as a scientist at IIT Bombay as Senior Scientist, Kumar Led the team which built India’s 1st Memory Chip with Semiconductor Lab (SCL)

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