AMD’s Visionary Investment in India’s Chip Sector
In a strategic move to strengthen its presence in India, U.S. chipmaker Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) has pledged a substantial investment of $400 million over the next five years. The announcement was made by Mark Papermaster, AMD’s Chief Technology Officer, at a prominent semiconductor conference in Gujarat, attended by notable industry leaders. With this investment, AMD is set to construct its largest design center in Bengaluru, marking a significant step towards India’s ambition to establish itself as a leading chipmaking destination.
Empowering India’s Technological Landscape
AMD’s new design center, spread over an expansive 500,000 square feet, will be operational by the end of the year, adding to the company’s existing 10 locations in India. The expansion is expected to create around 3,000 engineering roles within five years, further enhancing India’s prowess in chip development. Currently, AMD employs more than 6,500 professionals in the country, underscoring its commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering technological innovation.
The Modi Government’s Ambitious Drive
The Modi government’s efforts to attract investments in the burgeoning chip sector have been gaining momentum. Despite entering the industry relatively late, the government has been proactive in positioning India as a formidable chipmaking hub. The introduction of a $10 billion incentive program for the chip sector in 2021 reflects India’s determination to carve a prominent place in the global semiconductor landscape.
Boosting Resilience in Global Supply Chains
The significance of this investment extends beyond India’s borders, as it holds the potential to alleviate supply chain shocks that emerged during the pandemic. AMD’s decision to extend its R&D capabilities in India complements the ongoing efforts by other major chipmakers in the country. For instance, Applied Materials, a U.S. chip equipment manufacturer, revealed its multi-year $400 million plan to establish an engineering center, while chipmaker Micron made an $825 million investment in a semiconductor testing and packaging unit in Gujarat.
India’s Technological Ascendancy
As a vital player in the chip industry, AMD’s expansion plans in India reflect the growing interest and recognition of the country’s technological potential. The establishment of the new design center in Bengaluru is a testament to India’s steady rise in the global chipmaking arena, providing a conducive environment for companies to innovate and thrive. The move also positions India as a prime destination for chip development, fueling further growth in the nation’s tech and engineering sectors.
