UMC and Polar Team Up to Boost US Production of Key Semiconductor Wafers

Benzinga · 1d ago

United Microelectronics Corporation (NYSE:UMC)("UMC"), a leading global semiconductor foundry, and Polar Semiconductor, LLC ("Polar"), a U.S.-owned and operated foundry specializing in high-voltage, power, and sensor technologies, today announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore collaboration on delivering scalable U.S.-based 8-inch production of high-quality wafers that are essential across pillar industries including automotive, data centers, consumer electronics, and aerospace & defense.

 

Under the MOU, Polar and UMC will identify devices for Polar to manufacture at its recently expanded 8-inch facility in Minnesota. By combining Polar's proven manufacturing capabilities with UMC's comprehensive 8-inch technology portfolio and global customer base, this partnership is set to drive growth for both companies while supporting customers' multi-sourcing strategies. In addition, the collaboration will strengthen 8-inch wafer manufacturing in the U.S., contributing to supply chain resilience amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and ensuring a secure domestic supply of power semiconductors critical to automotive, electric grids, robotic manufacturing, data centers, and more.