IMEC looks to China for development

IMEC is talking with Shanghai-based SMIC (Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation) to explore a long-term partnership for the development of advanced semiconductor process technology.

IMEC is talking with Shanghai-based SMIC (Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corporation) to explore a long-term partnership for the development of advanced semiconductor process technology.

IMEC's support would consist of consulting services and training towards SMIC's own in-house development of advanced CMOS technology.

The contract discussions between both organisations began mid April, with the signature of a letter of intent.

In order to prepare the next step, IMEC initiated the procedure of applying for an export license with the Belgian authorities, at the beginning of May.

"Contrary to recent allegations in the international press, IMEC has always respected international regulations, and will continue to do so", said Prof Gilbert Declerck, President and CEO of IMEC.

SMIC has also given IMEC assurance of its respect for international regulations and continued obligations.

For these reasons, certain cooperation with SMIC on advanced semiconductor process technology subject to governmental approval will be conditional on the Belgian authorities' grant of an export license", said Prof Gilbert Declerck.

"We are curious to see how the global issue of export restrictions to China will evolve, in view of the growing interest of equipment and materials suppliers worldwide to sell into the expanding Chinese semiconductor market".

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