Taipei: Taiwan-based GlobalWafers Co., the world's third largest silicon wafer supplier, announced a new partnership with Apple Inc. through its subsidiary GlobalWafers America LLC, aimed at strengthening the U.S. semiconductor manufacturing supply chain. The collaboration will focus on building demand for 12-inch advanced silicon wafers produced at GlobalWafers' flagship facility in Sherman, Texas.

According to Focus Taiwan, 12-inch silicon wafers are crucial for pure play foundry operators and integrated device manufacturers in producing leading-edge, mature-node, and memory chips. GlobalWafers Chairperson Doris Hsu expressed enthusiasm over the collaboration, noting the presence of their silicon in Apple's globally recognized products such as the iPhone and iPad. Hsu also emphasized the significance of this partnership with Apple in aligning with efforts to enhance American semiconductor manufacturing.

Apple's chief operating officer Sabih Khan highlighted that the partnership aligns with Apple's US$600 billion commitment to the United States over the next four years. GlobalWafers also acknowledged support from the U.S. government, which has facilitated semiconductor investments through a 35 percent advanced manufacturing investment credit and streamlined the CHIPS for America Program.

GlobalWafers has gained its global ranking through strategic mergers and acquisitions, operating 18 sites across nine countries, including Taiwan, China, the U.S., and others. The new partnership with Apple is seen as a continuation of efforts to leverage market forces in driving supply chain demand.