Tamil Nadu is taking a significant step towards becoming a semiconductor manufacturing hub with the signing of an MoU between the state government and Applied Materials, a global leader in semiconductor equipment. The agreement will see the establishment of an advanced AI-powered technology development center of excellence in Chennai’s Taramani area, specifically at DLF Downtown. This center will focus on semiconductor manufacturing and equipment, with the potential to generate over 500 high-end jobs in the coming years.
The MoU will be signed in San Francisco in the presence of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin and Prabu Raja, president of the semiconductor products group at Applied Materials. The chief minister emphasized the importance of investment in key sectors like advanced electronics and semiconductors for achieving the state’s ambitious $1 trillion economy goal by 2030. He envisions Tamil Nadu as the most advanced knowledge and innovation hub in South Asia.
This development center will play a crucial role in strengthening the semiconductor ecosystem in Tamil Nadu by collaborating with local universities and industry partners. It will also contribute to developing a future-ready talent pool to support the growth of the chip industry. As part of this initiative, Applied Materials plans to expand its workforce in Tamil Nadu to over 500 technical jobs.
This collaboration aligns with Tamil Nadu’s strategic goal of attracting investments and initiatives that generate high-quality and high-end jobs, as highlighted by Chief Minister Stalin’s US visit. Looking ahead, the state is exploring the possibility of lobbying with Applied Materials to establish a full-fledged semiconductor manufacturing facility in Tamil Nadu.
Tamil Nadu’s Industries Minister T R B Rajaa highlighted the state’s commitment to fostering industry partnerships, cultivating a research-oriented culture, and developing a skilled workforce to support the growth of the semiconductor ecosystem. He expressed confidence that the collaboration with Applied Materials will play a significant role in realizing Tamil Nadu’s ambition of becoming a leading hub for semiconductor manufacturing.
