UMC unveils new fab expansion in Singapore

• The expansion will create around 700 local jobs in the coming years
• Facility will be built in two phases, with up to US$5 billion for the first phase

United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), a leading global semiconductor foundry, has officially opened its new fab facility in Singapore. In a statement, the company said the first phase of the facility will begin volume production in 2026, increasing UMC’s total production capacity in Singapore to over one million wafers annually. It will also be one of the most advanced semiconductor foundries in Singapore, manufacturing chips that enable communications, the internet of things (IoT), automotive, and AI innovations.

The facility, a greenfield expansion adjacent to UMC’s existing fab in the Pasir Ris Wafer Fab Park, will be developed in two phases. Up to US$5 billion (RM22 billion) will be invested to bring the first phase to full capacity of 30,000 wafers per month, with room for further expansion in the future. The facility is equipped for manufacturing using UMC’s industry-leading 22nm and 28nm solutions, the most advanced foundry processes currently available in Singapore’s semiconductor sector. It will support global customers’ products, including premium smartphone display chips, power-efficient memory chips for IoT devices, and next-generation connectivity chips.

The expansion is expected to create approximately 700 jobs locally over the next few years, including roles for process and equipment engineers, as well as research and development engineers.

“This new state-of-the-art facility in Singapore marks a new phase of growth for UMC. It enhances our ability to meet future chip demand, driven by continuous innovations in connectivity, automotive, and AI,” said SC Chien, president of UMC.

“The strategic location of Singapore also makes this new facility well placed to support our customers in strengthening supply chain resilience. This fab expansion closely aligns with the Singapore government’s vision to become a leading advanced manufacturing hub, and we are deeply grateful for their support.”

“We welcome UMC’s expansion in Singapore. This new fab introduces leading-edge specialty semiconductor capabilities and production capacity, enhancing Singapore’s competitiveness as a critical node in the global semiconductor supply chain. This significant investment underscores our long-standing partnership with UMC, and we look forward to deepening our collaboration to strengthen Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem,” said Jermaine Loy, managing director of the Singapore Economic Development Board.

According to UMC, the new facility was built to rigorous sustainability standards and has obtained Green Mark GoldPlus certification from Singapore’s Building and Construction Authority. As part of the company’s commitment to being 100% powered by renewable energy by 2050, the facility will feature 17,949 square metres of solar panels on its rooftop. In addition to the manufacturing site, the expansion includes a new office building, a full-sized multipurpose sports hall, and other amenities for employees and the community.