Industry association SEMI has published recommendations for the European Union to improve its semiconductor ecosystem.
The SEMI Europe Recommendations for the 2024-2029 Legislative Term paper urges the new EU Commissioners to implement legislation to boost Europe’s future competitiveness on the global stage for semiconductors in areas such as AI and driverless cars.
“The European Chips Act has generated strong momentum, and our recommendations highlight urgent actions to continue the progress made. Policymakers must build on this momentum by strengthening the legislative framework and advancing toward a Chips Act 2.0,” said Laith Altimime, President of SEMI Europe.
“In light of multiple technological disruptions such as AI and autonomous vehicles poised to drive industry growth over the years ahead, SEMI Europe presents its recommendations for a successful long-term strategy for the European semiconductor industry,”
SEMI Europe’s key recommendations for policymakers to consider include sstrengthening the semiconductor ecosystem by optimizing funding across the EU, member states, and private sectors to achieve the EU’s goal of a 20% global market share by 2030, advancing toward a comprehensive “European Chips Act 2.0” as well as aligning protective measures such as tarrifs and export controls on lithography equipment o improve global competitiveness.
It also called for semiconductors to be integrated intp the EU’s Green Deal by developing a policy framework that balances innovation and sustainability alongside responsible and sustainable use of essential chemicals, while supporting research for alternatives and maintaining the competitiveness of the European semiconductor supply chain. The SEMI sustainability consortium launched two years ago has several European leads.
The increasing talent gap is also a key issue and SEMI recommends fostering collaboration between industry and education and reforming immigration legislation to attract skilled talent globally. The German government recently announced €12m for a nationwide semiconductor skills academy.
All of this needs funding with industry needs to be aligned with the next Multi-Annual Financial Framework while fast-tracking the Chips for Europe Initiative and Important Projects of Common European Interest (IPCEI)
“SEMI Europe is committed to engaging with stakeholders to advocate for a comprehensive ‘Chips Act 2.0’ initiative that will address gaps in the current framework,” said Altimime. “This initiative will help solidify Europe’s position in the global semiconductor sector, boost competitiveness, and enhance security.”
The report is here: Advocacy_Whitepaper_Europe