Micron Plans $9.6 Billion Chip Plant in Japan to Boost AI Memory Production

Post by : Saif Nasser

Micron Technology, one of the world’s leading memory chip makers, is preparing a massive new investment in Japan as the global demand for artificial intelligence (AI) hardware continues to rise. According to a report by the Nikkei, the U.S. company will spend 1.5 trillion yen, or about $9.6 billion, to build a new advanced memory chip plant in Hiroshima, Japan. This project would be one of the largest semiconductor investments ever made in the country.

The new plant will focus on producing high-bandwidth memory (HBM) chips, which are essential for AI systems and large data centres. These chips help computers process huge amounts of information at high speed, making them a key part of AI training and advanced cloud services.

Micron is expected to begin construction in May next year. Production and shipments from the factory could start around 2028. The plant will be built on an existing Micron site in Hiroshima, strengthening Japan’s growing role in the global chip supply chain.

Japan’s Push to Revive Its Chip Industry

Japan was once a world leader in semiconductor manufacturing, but over the years its dominance faded as competition grew from South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States. Now, the Japanese government is working hard to revive the industry. It is offering generous subsidies to attract global companies and rebuild its position in advanced chip production.

For Micron’s Hiroshima project, Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry is expected to provide up to 500 billion yen in support. This large government contribution shows how seriously Japan views the semiconductor sector as part of its economic and national security strategy.

Japan has also partnered with major companies like Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) and IBM to build new facilities and develop cutting-edge chip technologies. The goal is to make Japan a key manufacturing hub once again.

Rising Global Demand for AI Chips

The expansion comes at a time when demand for HBM chips is rising very quickly. As AI tools, smart devices, and data centres grow around the world, companies need more powerful and efficient memory chips. Micron sees this as a major opportunity to expand its production capacity and compete more strongly with other industry giants, especially South Korea’s SK Hynix, the current market leader in HBM technology.

The new plant in Hiroshima will also help Micron diversify its production away from Taiwan. With rising geopolitical tensions and supply-chain risks in the region, companies are looking for safer and more stable locations to manufacture essential technology components. Japan offers both stability and strong government support.

Future Impact on Technology and Global Supply Chains

If completed as planned, this $9.6 billion investment will play an important role in shaping the future of AI technology. By increasing the supply of advanced memory chips, Micron can help meet the world’s growing need for faster, smarter, and more energy-efficient computing.

For Japan, the project strengthens its position as a trusted and capable partner in advanced technology manufacturing. It brings new jobs, new research opportunities, and a stronger foothold in the global semiconductor race.

For the world, the new plant helps create a more balanced and secure chip supply chain—something that governments and companies have been working toward since the disruptions of recent years.

Micron’s decision signals confidence in Japan’s long-term investment strategy and the future of AI-driven technologies. As more countries compete for leadership in chip production, moves like this will shape the next decade of technological development.

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