UMC, Polar Collaborate to Meet Growing Demand for U.S. Onshore Semiconductor Manufacturing

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United Microelectronics Corporation (UMC), a leading global semiconductor foundry, and Polar Semiconductor, LLC, a U.S.-owned and operated foundry specializing in high-voltage, power, and sensor technologies, announced they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore collaboration on delivering scalable U.S.-based 8-inch production of high-quality wafers that are essential across pillar industries including automotive, data centers, consumer electronics, and aerospace & defense.

Under the MOU, Polar and UMC will identify devices for Polar to manufacture at its recently expanded 8-inch facility in Minnesota. By combining Polar’s proven manufacturing capabilities with UMC’s comprehensive 8-inch technology portfolio and global customer base, this partnership is set to drive growth for both companies while supporting customers’ multi-sourcing strategies. In addition, the collaboration will strengthen 8-inch wafer manufacturing in the U.S., contributing to supply chain resilience amid shifting geopolitical dynamics and ensuring a secure domestic supply of power semiconductors critical to automotive, electric grids, robotic manufacturing, data centers, and more.

Ken Obuszewski, Vice President of Marketing of Polar, said, “This partnership is aligned with Polar’s strategy to meet the growing demand for domestic manufacturing, including the need to onshore semiconductor solutions from U.S. and global customers. With deep foundry customer relationships and a robust portfolio of specialized technologies, partnership with UMC is proof of Polar’s capability to be a value-added silicon foundry in specialized technologies focused on power and sensors.”

Oliver Chang, Senior Vice President of Global Sales of UMC, said, “UMC is committed to enabling our customers’ success through a broad range of foundry technologies and geographically diverse manufacturing options. We are excited to collaborate with Polar to explore new applications and markets. This partnership directly addresses our customers’ needs for more made-in-USA chips, reflecting UMC’s dedication to delivering value through innovative solutions and mutually beneficial partnerships.”