Consider the production of semiconductor chips as a strategic industry: ICEA

Consider the production of semiconductor chips as a strategic industry: ICEA

In its analysis, ICEA emphasized how important it is to create a comprehensive design ecosystem that includes every step of the electronics value chain.

The group, which is the representative of Foxconn, Lava, Apple, and other Chinese phone manufacturers, also pushed for government funding for renovated factories.

The India Cellular & Electronics Association (ICE) has advocated for the creation of a specialized capital market structure for the electronics and high-tech industries, as well as the treatment of semiconductor chip design and manufacture as a key sector with access to low-cost funding.

As crucial first steps toward creating a self-sufficient semiconductor ecosystem, the group, which represents Apple, Foxconn, Lava, and other Chinese handset companies, also pushed for government investment in refurbished fabs and encouraged it to set up systems to support emerging semiconductor design firms and develop a skilled workforce in the industry.

Pankaj Mohindroo, Chairman of ICEA, said, "India stands at a pivotal juncture to restructure its role in the semiconductor value chain because we navigate through a revolutionary era in electronics manufacturing and hi-tech technology."

In its analysis, ICEA emphasized how important it is to create a comprehensive design ecosystem that includes every step of the electronics value chain. In order to ensure a thriving local semiconductor design ecosystem, this involves encouraging significant Indian corporates and OEMs to become involved in semiconductor design and core IP generation.

It also suggested adding mask sets to the Design-Linked Incentive (DLI) program, advocating for strong legislative and regulatory support. The proposal suggests subsidising mask sets for Indian design businesses by up to 80% in order to promote the development of a robust Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) system in India.

Emphasizing the critical shortage of qualified workers in the semiconductor industry, ICEA recommended creating industry-focused curriculum and all-encompassing training initiatives.