Japanese semiconductor start up Rapidus has announced plans to construct a 1.4 nm process node fabrication facility, marking a bold step in the country ambition to re enter the front ranks of advanced global chip manufacturing.

Research and development activities for the facility are expected to begin in 2026, with volume production targeted for 2029. Once operational, the plant is expected to place Japan among a small group of nations capable of producing chips at the most advanced technology nodes.

The move reflects Japan wider strategy to rebuild its semiconductor competitiveness and reduce global over reliance on a limited number of manufacturing geographies. By strengthening domestic capabilities in cutting edge fabrication, Japan aims to reinforce supply chain resilience for critical technologies such as artificial intelligence, high performance computing, automotive electronics and advanced communications.

Rapidus is backed by a consortium of leading Japanese technology and industrial firms, with strong government support as part of Japan long term economic security and industrial policy agenda. The project also reflects closer collaboration between industry, academia and international technology partners.

Industry analysts view the initiative as a strategically significant development in the global semiconductor landscape. As demand for advanced chips continues to surge, driven largely by AI and data intensive workloads, the expansion of leading edge manufacturing capacity beyond existing strongholds in Taiwan and South Korea is increasingly seen as essential.

With the 1.4 nm roadmap, Rapidus positions Japan not only as a manufacturing player but also as a contributor to the next generation of semiconductor innovation, reinforcing its relevance in one of the world most critical strategic industries.