Rapidus on Track for 2nm Chip Production by 2027, Signaling Intensified Foundry Competition
Tokyo, Japan – July 18, 2025 – Japan’s ambitious semiconductor venture, Rapidus Corporation, has announced significant progress in its development of 2-nanometer (nm) chip manufacturing technology, indicating the project remains on schedule for production commencement by 2027. This update signals a crucial step forward in Rapidus’s mission to re-establish Japan as a leading force in advanced chip fabrication and injects a fresh dynamic into the global foundry landscape.
The announcement, made today by The Register, suggests that Rapidus is steadily achieving key milestones in its pursuit of cutting-edge semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. The development of 2nm technology represents the next frontier in chip miniaturization, promising enhanced performance, increased power efficiency, and a reduced physical footprint for electronic devices. Achieving this advanced node is a complex undertaking, requiring substantial investment, cutting-edge research and development, and strategic international partnerships.
Rapidus, a joint venture backed by seven major Japanese corporations, including Toyota, NTT, and Sony, was established with the explicit goal of mastering and commercializing advanced semiconductor manufacturing. The company has strategically partnered with established industry leaders, notably IBM for its Gate-All-Around (GAA) transistor technology and imec for process development, to accelerate its technological roadmap. These collaborations are vital for navigating the intricate challenges associated with developing and scaling next-generation chip manufacturing processes.
The prospect of Japan’s return to the forefront of advanced chip manufacturing is of considerable global significance. For years, the semiconductor foundry market has been dominated by a few key players, particularly TSMC in Taiwan and Samsung in South Korea. Rapidus’s projected entry into the 2nm arena by 2027 could introduce a compelling new option for chip designers and manufacturers worldwide, potentially fostering greater competition and innovation within the industry.
This development is also of immense importance to Japan’s own economic and technological sovereignty. The COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent supply chain disruptions highlighted the critical need for resilient and geographically diverse semiconductor production capabilities. By investing heavily in advanced manufacturing, Japan aims to secure its own supply of essential microchips and bolster its position in key technological sectors.
While the timeline is ambitious, the continued progress reported by Rapidus suggests a robust and determined effort. The success of the 2nm initiative will hinge on the company’s ability to translate laboratory advancements into reliable, high-volume manufacturing. The industry will be closely watching Rapidus’s subsequent developments as it works towards its 2027 production target. This endeavor represents not only a significant technological leap for Japan but also a potentially transformative event for the global semiconductor ecosystem.
Foundry competition heats up as Japan’s Rapidus says 2nm chip tech on track for 2027
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