Thailand Aims to Strengthen Its Position in the Global Supply Chain
In a significant development, King Mongkut’s Institute of Technology Ladkrabang (KMITL) has inaugurated the nation’s first comprehensive semiconductor technology research and development (R&D) centre. This initiative intends to enhance Thailand’s role in the global supply chain for semiconductors.
The KMITL Academy of Innovative Semiconductor Manufacturing (KAISEM) will function as a central hub, uniting experts across various disciplines to foster advancements in semiconductor research, innovation, and electronic manufacturing processes.
KAISEM is committed to cultivating specialized talent by equipping students and professionals with the essential skills and knowledge needed for thriving in the semiconductor sector.
“Thailand has the potential to attract multinational semiconductor companies through offerings such as tax incentives, subsidies, robust infrastructure, and strong intellectual property protection. Focusing on education and training will ensure a skilled workforce,” stated a representative from KMITL.
Amidst geopolitical uncertainties prompting countries to diversify their semiconductor supply chains, Thailand seeks to position itself as a stable manufacturing hub.
The centre plans to develop tailored curricula and research programmes aligned with the semiconductor industry’s demands, ensuring that Thailand’s workforce remains competitive globally.
Furthermore, KAISEM will support R&D projects that address critical challenges in semiconductor manufacturing, ranging from materials science to process engineering.
“This initiative will bolster Thailand’s semiconductor electronics industry, a cornerstone of modern electronics, while also acting as a centre for education and personnel development,” the representative added.
The institute has also entered into a collaboration agreement with a leading provider of automated test and measurement systems to enhance KAISEM’s academic programmes and research capabilities, allowing faculty to meet global standards.
By forging strategic partnerships with semiconductor firms, universities, and research organisations, Thailand aims to access advanced technologies and best practices.
These collaborations may include joint ventures, R&D projects, and talent exchanges, further enriching Thailand’s manufacturing capabilities.
The region stands as the world’s second-largest semiconductor exporter, contributing 22.5% of global semiconductor exports, with Thailand alone registering exports of 800 billion baht in 2023.
With the rapid technological advancements and shifting geopolitical contexts set to influence the global semiconductor industry, Thailand’s role as a vital player in the supply chain is poised to expand.
As semiconductors become increasingly regarded as strategic assets critical to national security and economic growth, ongoing demand for advanced semiconductor technologies—driven by innovations in artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and 5G technology—highlights the necessity for continuous investment in R&D.
Investing in R&D, maintaining stable political environments, and fostering collaborative ecosystems will position countries like Thailand at the forefront of the next wave of semiconductor innovations.
