The EU and Japan are to collaborate on semiconductor research under a renewed digital drive.
The commitment coincides with the third Digital Partnership Council in Tokyo.
Alongside research, both parties are to enhance their efforts “to ensure semiconductor supply chain resilience through information exchange and early warning mechanisms”.
The partnership also extends to quantum computing and AI, online platforms, data governance, cybersecurity and submarine cables. A letter of intent will be signed on Tuesday (13 May) on quantum computing, to tackle issues such as energy sustainability.
The strengthening of ties comes amid mounting geopolitical challenges which present threats to technological growth, as well as increased international competition.
In the late 1980s, six of the top 10 global chipmakers were Japanese. Subsequently it lost its leading position to Taiwan, and South Korea, then Europe and the US.
But now there are signs of a resurgence.
The opening of a TSMC factory near Kumamoto last year is the most significant sign of a comeback.
The factory aims to produce thousands of wafers per month as well as advanced logic chips that Japan has not been able to manufacture, according to ARC Group, the global investment bank and management consultancy.
Four new factories, including facilities for Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing and Rapidus, are slated to open this year.
