Rapidus begins pilot production of 2-nanometer chips in Hokkaido

Government-backed Rapidus started pilot production of advanced chips in Hokkaido this week, taking Japan one step closer to its goal of a return to semiconductor-manufacturing leadership. The company announced Tuesday that its plant near New Chitose Airport is ready for test production of next-generation 2-nanometer chips. Rapidus aims to mass produce those semiconductors -- which are vital for advanced technologies, such as artificial intelligence and autonomous driving -- in 2027.