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Rapidus Signs MoU with UK Semiconductor Centre

On June 14, 2026, Rapidus Corporation officially announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UK Semiconductor Centre (UKSC), an organization dedicated to promoting the semiconductor sector within the United Kingdom. This strategic partnership aims to enhance future semiconductor manufacturing and showcases the intent to bolster collaboration between Japan and the UK in the technology realm.

The UKSC plays a pivotal role in fostering the development of the semiconductor ecosystem within the UK. It is instrumental in not only advocating for growth strategies but also in cultivating international collaborations and technical partnerships that focus on innovative technologies, including advancements in artificial intelligence and hardware development.

Earlier in January 2026, leadership discussions between Japan and the UK signified a mutual agreement to intensify cooperation within the technology field. On the same day as the MoU signing, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi visited the UK to meet with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, marking a significant step in advancing Japan-UK technology cooperation.

Andy McLean, the CEO of UKSC, expressed his enthusiasm about the agreement, stating, "We are thrilled to establish a partnership with Rapidus, enhancing the relationship between the UK and Japan. The UK Government's AI Hardware Plan recognizes the essentiality of building reliable manufacturing and technological partnerships to enable UK companies to access the capabilities necessary for innovation and growth. This agreement is a significant milestone in realizing that ambition. It combines the complementary strengths of both nations, facilitating the establishment of international relationships crucial for the future success of the UK semiconductor sector."

Rapidus is currently engaged in pilot production with a vision to mass-produce cutting-edge 2nm logic semiconductors in Japan by 2027. The signing of this agreement indicates the commencement of information exchange and strategic discussions aimed at refining future collaborations.

"From our inception, we've emphasized global partnerships and building vital alliances with countries to enhance their semiconductor initiatives. Our collaboration with UKSC is another step toward fulfilling our mission," remarked Dr. Atsuyoshi Koike, CEO of Rapidus Corporation. He added, "We feel honored that the UK has placed its trust in Japan and Rapidus. We anticipate working closely with them to pioneer the next generation of semiconductor development."

About UK Semiconductor Centre

The UK Semiconductor Centre (UKSC) serves as a gateway to the UK's semiconductor industry, ensuring that the country maintains global competitiveness by synchronizing the ecosystem around essential technologies and expediting commercialization efforts. Semiconductors are integral to various aspects of contemporary life, from healthcare to communication, transport, energy, and national security. As global demand surges and the resilience of supply chains becomes increasingly critical, the UKSC is positioned to lead in this strategically significant sector.

By leveraging the UK’s renowned innovation landscape, including its distinct strengths in compound semiconductors, photonics, and advanced chip design, the Center aligns research excellence with industrial capability. It accelerates growth through targeted support and enhanced access to infrastructure while attracting global partners eager for cutting-edge collaborations, ultimately securing investments that translate groundbreaking innovations into commercial realities.

For more details, visit UK Semiconductor Centre.

About Rapidus Corporation

Rapidus Corporation aims to develop and manufacture the world’s most advanced logic semiconductors. Its mission is to innovate alongside its customers by streamlining design cycles, wafer processing, and 3D packaging among others. The company is committed to continually challenging itself to enhance the quality of life through advanced semiconductor technologies. To learn more, visit Rapidus Corporation.

Headquarters

• - Address: 4-1 Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo 102-0083, Japan
• - Founded: August 10, 2022
• - Capital: 424.95 billion yen (as of June 5, 2026)

This latest partnership marks a significant moment in the journey toward collaborative advancements in the semiconductor industry, and its impact is anticipated to resonate across both nations.