Taiwanese media outlet China Times News Network reported on the 7th, under the title 'Is Hokkaido the next Taiwan?', introducing an analysis by the British magazine The Economist which stated that Japan's semiconductor industry revival is a 'gamble' largely entrusted to Rapidus.

The article stated, "While Hokkaido is known for its snowy landscapes, the Japanese government is now trying to develop this area into the next base for the semiconductor industry. Rapidus, a semiconductor startup supported by the government, is constructing a 2-nanometer semiconductor factory in Chitose City, Hokkaido, and 'Hokkaido Silicon Valley' has become a symbol of new-era industrial policy."

On the other hand, citing a report by the British magazine The Economist, it mentioned that "whether this concept will be realized, and almost all of its success or failure, depends on whether Rapidus can mass-produce 2nm products and make them profitable." Quoting James Riney, CEO of venture capital firm Coral Capital, who said, "Hokkaido will become the next Taiwan," the article conveyed that Japan's financial industry is showing an optimistic outlook.

According to the magazine, Rapidus could have initially chosen Kyushu as its location. TSMC had already built a factory in Kyushu, and a relatively well-established supplier network existed there. However, Rapidus ultimately chose Hokkaido. The reasons cited include abundant water resources, the availability of vast land, low population density, and significant potential for renewable energy. Hokkaido is expected to account for approximately one-third of Japan's total wind power generation by 2040, and the restart of the Tomari Nuclear Power Plant, the only nuclear power plant in the prefecture, is anticipated after 2027.

Additionally, Hokkaido would be less affected in the event of an emergency in the Taiwan Strait; its cool climate is suitable for establishing data centers that consume large amounts of electricity; SoftBank is proceeding with the construction of a data center in Tomakomai City, investing a total of 65 billion yen, which is raising expectations for AI (artificial intelligence) infrastructure development. These factors are also in the background, and it has been pointed out that Hokkaido itself could gain significant economic benefits if a semiconductor industry cluster is formed.

On the other hand, the British magazine The Economist expressed the view that Hokkaido is unlikely to develop into a semiconductor industry hub in a short period, citing a shortage of human resources as the reason. It stated that Rapidus currently relies on experienced Japanese engineers, and that the development of semiconductor talent at universities within the prefecture has only just begun and its outcome is unknown. It also pointed out that Japan's wage levels lack competitiveness compared to major global high-tech hubs, which could disadvantage efforts to attract highly skilled foreign talent. Furthermore, it indicated that it would take time to develop large-scale manufacturing bases and supply chains in Hokkaido.

Moreover, it cited Rapidus's strategy as the "biggest uncertainty," stating, "While TSMC adopts a strategy of mass-producing standardized semiconductors on a large scale, Rapidus focuses on manufacturing custom AI semiconductors with short lead times and small lots. Only a very limited number of companies in the world can manufacture cutting-edge semiconductors, and since the demand for AI semiconductors continues to expand, this strategy has a certain potential. However, the company plans to begin mass production next year, and it is then that its true value will be tested."

The article concluded by pointing out that the Japanese government has already provided Rapidus with support exceeding 2 trillion yen, and that Japan's national project for semiconductor industry revival has effectively been entrusted to Rapidus alone. "Whether Hokkaido Silicon Valley can become a new driving force to lead Japan's high-tech industry. The ultimate key lies in whether Rapidus can link its cutting-edge technology to sustainable commercial success."