CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Semiconductor industry growth presents

key opportunity for Japanese manufacturers
Backed by its historical expertise in semiconductor production and a large network of equipment, component
and material makers, Japan is set to play a vital role in the future of the semiconductor industry.
New Fab Construction Reaching Historic Highs Semiconductor Materials Market Growth Hits New Records
Construction Construction Spending 2018-2024F Change $ 80
illion (Front End Fabs, with Discretes) Rate % Wafer Fab Materials Packaging Materials
$ 35,000 $ 70

$ 30,000 80% $ 60

US $ Billions
$ 25,000 60% $ 50

$ 20,000 40% $ 40

$ 15,000 20% $ 30

$ 10,000 0% $ 20

$ 5,000 -20% $ 10

$ -40% $0
2018 2019 2020 2021 2022F 2023F 2024F 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022F 2023F

ource orld a orecast arch Source: SEMI

In November last year, the Taiwan Semiconductor as new technologies demand ever higher-per- materials and a share in e uipment or
Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s larg- forming, yet increasingly smaller semiconductors, semiconductor manu acturing. yushu here
est manufacturer of semiconductors, announced the many companies ill turn to Japan’s e uipment several industries are gathered, is an ideal place
construction o its first-ever oundry in Japan. he material and component ma ers to support their or a oundry. thin any overseas company can
su sidiary named Japan dvanced emiconductor production o high- uality chips. ’s J esta lish a competitive a in Japan ecause it
anu acturing J a oint venture et een ma- venture there ore could ell e the first o many has great in rastructure and a lot o e ceptional
ority sta eholder and ony emiconductor other such pro ects loo ing to ta e advantage o talent. he Japanese government has already an-
Solutions (SSS) Corporation, will begin operation in Japan’s ell-esta lished semiconductor ecosystem. nounced its support for such plans, and decided
2024, churning out 45,000 high-end logic wafers s the pace o digitali ation continues to ac- to increase su sidies or this initiative.”
a month in response to increasing glo al demand. celerate, semiconductors will play a leading role hile the semiconductor industry is dominated
he pro ect is seen as a huge nod o confi- because they support and enable the creation of by large companies and corporations, foundries
dence rom in Japan’s semiconductor ne applications ” says oshi i a ai president can also ta e advantage o a range o Japan’s agile
industry ith automo ile parts ma er enso and o semiconductor e uipment manu ac- players e celling in niche technologies. ugle
– foreseeing increased demand for semiconduc- turer o yo lectron . s such innovation in which manufactures micro-particle and electrostatic
tors in the glo al car industry also oining as the semiconductor industry will necessarily involve removal e uipment or semiconductors s and
a third investor in 2022, bringing the overall the development o manu acturing techni ues that lithium-ion atteries i s is one such company.
investment in the plant to . n. allow for the production of a larger volume of “Today, two main pillars support and sustain our
s the glo al semiconductor demand is e - chips, with each chip having higher speed, higher usiness. he first is electrostatic removal technol-
pected to continue to gro e e pect J ill reliability, a larger capacity and lower energy con- ogy or semiconductor products. he second is
contribute to the stable supply of logic wafers,” sumption. s a glo al leader in the production o the removal of micron-sized particles, including
says erushi himi u president and o . semiconductor manu acturing e uipment and microscopic dust and contaminants,” says president
lso rom the perspective o the Japanese semi- materials Japan ill have an important role to play asa uro u imiya. ur devices support micro-
conductor industry as a whole, if the establish- in turning innovative ideas into realities.” processing. s integrated circuits and semiconductor
ment o J stimulates the activities o partner s one o the orld’s leading providers o semicon- products become smaller and smaller, advanced
and service companies that support its production ductor manu acturing e uipment ’s role in the removal technologies are re uired to support min-
activities, it might lead to the revitalization of the advancement of semiconductor processing cannot iaturi ation and that is precisely hat e ocus on.”
industry hich e highly elcome.” e understated. irtually every semiconductor or perating in umamoto a hu or the semi-
he revitali ation o Japan’s semiconductor display in the world passes through our semicon- conductor industry hich ill host the ne J
industry may not only e crucial or Japan ut the ductor production e uipment ” r. a ai proudly a ata ho ai is another company supporting
orld as a hole. ith the value o the glo al semi- highlights. imply put no cutting-edge semiconduc- semiconductor manufacturers with its range of
conductor mar et e pected to s ell to trillion tor chip can e made ithout ’s technology.” high-tech e uipment. e sell machines to many
by 2030 driven by ever-increasing technological Japan’s semiconductor ecosystem is also ac ed semiconductor and silicon wafer manufacturers,
demands Japan is ell positioned to serve as a up by a robust industrial structure made of up such as the final ashing machine or silicon a-
manufacturing hub, offering foundries access to automotives, electronics, logistics and heavy indus- ers. e have a small actory in umamoto called
a large net or o companies ith long-standing try, as well as well-developed infrastructure and a hich e ac uired through an .
e perience in semiconductor manu acturing e uip- talented or orce as pointed out y oshio iroe e provide maintenance or small and medium
ment materials and components. president o oldings a leading provider si ed machines there ” e plains president a uya
hile Japan has significantly lost its once- o manu acturing e uipment or semiconductors ata h. . n recent years e have also sold
dominant share in semiconductor manufacturing, it at-panel displays s and printed circuit oards. cleaning machines to the semiconductor industry
continues to hold a leading position when it comes elieve Japan still has an e cellent sup- in hina. t is hinese government policy that all
to these supporting segments o the industry. nd ply chain, with a 40% share in semiconductor semiconductors are manu acturered domestically.
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

However, the facility or production equipment is their products as clean as possible, they demand of semiconductor manufacturing processes,”
often Japanese. Our role is to maintain the highest the cleanest packaging with high purity. We are he adds. “For example, semiconductor plants
quality of semiconductors. This is an important the only company that can offer the needed quality use hundreds of thousands of solenoid valves,
role because semiconductors are very delicate.” for plastic-based bottles used for the storage of and by using our power-saving products, power
Aside from equipment manufacturers, Japan semiconductor-related chemical products.” consumption can be reduced by 30-50%.”
offers access to a host of material makers who also Beyond equipment and materials providers, Japan also e cels in the field o analog semicon-
play an important role in the fabrication of high- Japan’s semiconductor ecosystem also consists ductor technologies through companies like ABLIC
performing semiconductors. Nippon Micrometal, for of manufacturers of high-quality components, and Sony Semiconductor Solutions, the aforemen-
instance, has stayed apace with the ever-changing such as Kyocera, which develops packages and tioned TSMC partner in the JASM venture. When it
demands of the semiconductor industry over its 35- other parts used for chip production. With Kyo- comes to these analog semiconductor technologies,
year history, with the company constantly adapting cera predicting significant gro th over the ne t the leaders o oth firms highlight that Japan’s
its bonding wire technology to cater to the latest decade, the ceramics and electronics manufac- competitive strengths originate from mono u uri,
requirements. As is the case for many Japanese turer is devoting more efforts and resources the philosophy behind Japanese craftsmanship
companies, the nascent CASE (connected, autono- towards the semiconductor segment of its busi- long associated with major companies like Toyota.
mous, shared, electric) vehicle segment is a new ness, including the construction of a new factory “ABLIC is an analog semiconductor company, not
focus area for Nippon Micrometal, whose bonding – set to open in October 2023 – that will enable digital so this re uires a specific type o cra tsman-
wires can be found in semiconductor packaging. the company to expand its production capacity ship and a highly detailed design process. The result
“Currently, our copper and gold wire products are for components including organic semiconductor is a highly valuable and intelligent product that
focused on silicon-based semiconductors which are packages and crystal device packages. cannot be found in the warehouses of other com-
used for a more high-density type of semiconductor. panies,” says president and CEO Nobumasa Ishiai.
In the area of power semiconductors, meanwhile, “As a global leader in semiconductor With its roots in the development of CMOS
we are anticipating a switch to new technologies, (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) in-
such as silicon carbide (SiC) technology,” states
manufacturing equipment and tegrated circuits (ICs), the company has expanded
president Dr. Takashi Yamada. “For example, with the materials, Japan will have an with its entrance into the electronic devices and
transition to EVs (electric vehicles), SiC technology important role to play in turning sensor fields. o e have a product port olio un-
will be essential for a transition from a 400-volt innovative ideas into realities.” like any other semiconductor company in the world,
to an 800-volt battery charging system. We are featuring a wide array of analog semiconductor
focused on developing new types of wires for power Toshiki Kawai, solutions from battery-less sensors, UV cameras
semiconductors and also conducting research into President, Tokyo Electron for aerospace technology, and components for
advanced copper wires as copper has much higher automotive and medical ICs,” adds Mr. Ishiai.
electrical conductivity than aluminum.” “Current-generation semiconductor compo- Also engaged in the sensor business, SSS has
Maxell, meanwhile, is also focused on the devel- nents are expected to reach maturity; however, we been at the forefront of innovation in CMOS image
opment of battery technology for semiconductor- believe there is still room for immense growth re- sensors as it looks to develop technologies that
heavy fields such as hy rids and s o and garding the cutting-edge requirements of the most ill po er the ensing ociety’ an era defined
medical devices. Currently the well-known battery advanced semiconductors. We plan to continue by AI, IoT, edge computing and autonomous and
maker is in the process of establishing the world’s serving this field y supplying our pac ages and advanced driving systems.
first mass production system or small-si e all-solid- components and e e pect to gro significantly “Our core competencies in mono u uri lie in
state batteries, which have been hailed as the next by doing so,” says president, Hideo Tanimoto. world-class advanced technology and the abil-
generation of battery innovation. Meanwhile, CKD Corporation – whose electric ity to integrate these technological capabilities
“I think that the strengths of Japanese companies actuators and uid control components are through a series of processes – from design to
continue to be in technologies and industries where used in a range of manufacturing sites, includ- development and manufacturing – at a high
the delicate alignment of goods and information is ing those for semiconductor, automotive and level. All these competencies are supported by
the core. This includes hybrid vehicles that involve electronic parts – has also constructed a new our advanced manufacturing technology and
delicate linkage between engines and batteries, plant. This new Komatsu-based facility will cater quality control system,” says SSS president and
and semiconductor manufacturing equipment,” to anticipated greater demand for equipment for erushi himi u. ur image sensor is
highlights president Keiji Nakamura. “Maxell is also the semiconductor industry, explains chairman an analog device in which the ability to integrate
planning to grow by leveraging its analog core and a unori a imoto. ecomes e tremely important in order to reali e
technologies of mixing, coating, and forming as the characteristics such as sensitivity and minimal
source of its competitiveness. For product develop- “Equipment spending for these 29 noise. This is an area where SSS can differentiate
ment e are leading the commerciali ation o small- fabs is expected to surpass $140 itself from competitors. As we combine image
si ed all-solid-state atteries so e are orming ties sensors and AI for a wide variety of applications,
with material manufacturers for these batteries.” billion over the next few years as we expect further product and customer diversi-
Like Hugle, AICELLO Corporation, a specialist in the industry pushes to address fication to enhance the usiness.”
plastic films and pac aging is also concerned ith the global chip shortage.” TSMC and SSS’s JASM fab is one of 29 such
the removal of contaminants in semiconductor facilities being built worldwide by semiconductor
production ith its ocus specifically on transport Ajit Manocha, manufacturers over the 2021-22 period, accord-
and packaging. The company’s hyper-clean PE President & CEO, SEMI ing to SEMI, an industry association comprising
film and clean containers or e ample are used companies involved in the electronics design and
in transporting chemicals used in the semiconduc- A core strength of CKD is its technological manufacturing supply chain. “Equipment spending
tor manufacturing process. “In semiconductor capabilities developed over its 70-year-history, for these 29 fabs is expected to surpass $140 bil-
production, every step requires a particular chemi- with the company holding more than 1,500 lion over the next few years as the industry pushes
cal packed and transported by our containers. patents. “Among our products, there are many to address the global chip shortage,” said Ajit
he si e o semiconductor products is ecoming with a high market share in the world or in Manocha, SEMI president and CEO. Such growth
smaller, thus, there is a higher chance for con- Japan. For example, our chemical liquid valves in investment bodes well for Japan’s semiconduc-
tamination or impurities during the process that for semiconductor manufacturing equipment tor equipment, material and component makers,
could cause defects to the end product,” explains have the number one global market share,” who are set to play a major role in addressing the
president and CEO Satoshi Morita. “To that end, says Mr. Kajimoto. “CKD offers products that growing demand for high-performing semicon-
because chemical manufacturers need to keep contribute to reducing the environmental impact ductors in our increasingly digital world.
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Tokyo Electron: Japan’s biggest

semiconductor equipment maker
TEL is a market-leading manufacturer of equipment used to produce the state-of-the-art semiconductors needed
for the digital technology we depend on every day.
A company that celebrates six de- “Virtually every contribute to technological innova-
cades of existence in 2023, Tokyo tion in semiconductors.”
Electron (TEL) is a key player in semiconductor in the A company that also follows
what has become known as the ‘data world passes through our the mantra ‘Technology Enabling
age’. After all, TEL is a world-leading semiconductor production Life’, TEL embraces the critical
producer of the equipment used to equipment. Simply role that semiconductors will have
manufacture semiconductors, which put, no cutting-edge in building a sustainable future. “As
in turn are an essential component the shift towards a data-driven
in smartphones, computers and a semiconductor chip can society accelerates and efforts to
range of other connected digital de- be made without TEL’s solve global environmental issues
vices that serve the everyday needs technology.” progress, ‘Digital x Decarboniza-
of an increasingly data-dependent tion’ has become a major trend
society. “Semiconductor products Toshiki Kawai, worldwide,” Mr. Kawai notes. “The
are found everywhere,” says TEL’s Representative Director, orld is currently pushing firmly
representative director, president President & CEO, ahead with implementing ICT and
& CEO, Toshiki Kawai. Tokyo Electron Ltd. DX as it takes action to realize a
In the semiconductor industry, carbon-free society. Because of
TEL stands alone in its ability to the ubiquity of semiconductors,
deliver manufacturing technol- the industry has a crucial part to
ogy that covers four key front-end play in this process.”
processes in the production of Semiconductors’ vital role is
semiconductors film deposition not only a consequence of their
coating/development, etching and importance to the development
cleaning. “We’re the only company o specific technology that can
in the world capable of providing be harnessed to reduce negative
solutions for all of these sequential environmental impacts, but also
key processes – we have equipment comes down to the contribution
for each of them,” Mr. Kawai says. they can have in making digital
“What’s more, every product in our systems as a whole more energy
line-up has either the first or second e ficient r. a ai says. elieve
market share in the world. Virtually the key approaches in ‘Digital x De-
every semiconductor in the world carbonization’ efforts are ‘Green x
passes through our production Digital’ and ‘Green of Digital’,” he
equipment. Simply put, no cutting- explains. “‘Green x Digital’ is real-
edge semiconductor chip can be technological leadership. Further- hich as the firm loo s to the u- izing a green society by leveraging
made without TEL’s technology.” more, our model creates a work- ture defines its ocus company digital power such as leading-edge
While TEL equipment is used ing environment where employees filled ith dreams and vitality that ICT, while ‘Green of Digital’ is pro-
across the globe, the Tokyo-based feel a higher level of morale and a contributes to technological innova- moting the reduction of energy
company places a focus on domestic greater sense of responsibility, mo- tion in semiconductors.” Mr. Kawai consumption in digital infrastruc-
development and production pro- tivation and leadership, and this in explains: “The famous academic ture. The technological evolution
cesses – a policy that helps it to turn creates pride among employees Michael Porter once theorized the of semiconductors is indispensable
remain at the forefront of its sector, to produce the best products. This necessity to create and abide by a to realizing both of these.”
Mr. Kawai declares. “Keeping our translates into an extremely low set of ‘shared values’; values that are ncreased e ficiency is also among
production, R&D and design bases staff turnover rate. Within Japan, embraced on a global level. When the ongoing advances in semicon-
in close proximity plays a crucial role the percentage of our workers who articulating his vision, he believed ductor technology that are needed
both in our capacity to be innova- leave their jobs is less than 1%.” that the creation of ‘shared values’ simply to keep pace with humanity’s
tive and in our ability to maintain “On the other hand, more than agreed upon by all TEL stakeholders ever-growing data needs, Mr. Kawai
a world-class workforce,” he says. 80% of our sales are overseas, and was key to the advancement of hu- says: “In our data-driven society, the
“We’re able to emphasize ‘concur- one of our strengths is the sup- mankind. TEL’s new vision is based volume of data communication is
rent engineering’, in which product port of local subsidiaries that re- on the idea of ‘creating shared value’: increasing by 26% per year. If data
development and mass production spond appropriately and promptly the concept of creating social and volume continues to increase at an
run in parallel and are ideally located to customer issues. In addition, economic value by leveraging corpo- annual rate of 26%, it’s expected
near each other. This geographic company-wide policies are shared rate expertise to solve social issues, to be 100 times the current level
proximity allows us to incorporate between the CEO and the presi- thereby enhancing corporate value by 2040. To sustainably achieve
design, quality control and mass- dents of our overseas subsidiaries and achieving sustainable growth. this volume, we’ll require semicon-
production ideas at the develop- at quarterly meetings.” We’ll continue to develop our busi- ductors that boast larger capacity,
ment stage, enabling us to react Ahead of its 60th anniversary, ness activities based on the idea higher speed, more reliability and
swiftly to new ideas and maintain TEL has unveiled a new vision of ‘TEL’s shared value’, which is to that consume less energy.”
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

A company filled with dreams and vitality

that contributes to technological
innovation in semiconductors

www.tel.com
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Leading the way towards the Sensing Society

With a clear vision for the future, Sony Semiconductor Solutions is developing the image sensors and solutions
that will be core technologies to drive a future Sensing Society.
From super-high-definition smart- driver-assistance systems (ADAS)
phone cameras and autonomous “In the image sensor business, and autonomous vehicles, and SSS
vehicles, to edge computing, IoT and e pects to e or ing ith o
AI – image sensors are crucial com- where we possess many years the Top 20 automotive OEMs by
ponents in the technologies becom- of experience in development . ndustrial applications is
ing ever-more commonplace in our and advanced technology, we another focus area for SSS, while
society. As such, demand for image aim to maintain our global its new challenge is the solutions
sensors will continue to grow, with business, with the image sensor
leadership.” company among the first to tac le
the market expected to expand by
9% (CAGR) between 2022 and 2030. the issue of the ever-increasing load
Terushi Shimizu,
An independent subsidiary of the on the cloud due to the growing
Representative Director,
Sony Group since 2016, Sony Semi- number of IoT devices.
President & CEO,
conductor Solutions (SSS) has a long The need for vision sensing us-
Sony Semiconductor
history in the field o image sensor ing cameras with image sensors is
Solutions Corp.
development and previously held a gro ing significantly in the o era.
dominant position in the CCD format. With the increasingly vast amount
The company decided to reorient its of data being processed via cloud
focus towards CMOS (complemen- computing, high electric power con-
tary metal-oxide-semiconductor) sumption; privacy risks; latency in
image sensors in the mid 2000s. data transmission processing and
While the CMOS format had many analysis; service continuity; and se-
performance issues, SSS recognized curity maintenance have become
its fascinating development potential greater concerns. In response, SSS
and aimed to cultivate “innovative Nagasaki Technology Center has launched its edge AI sensing
imaging culture”, particularly with “As global semiconductor de- platform AITRIOS, a one-stop en-
cellphone users in mind. mand will continue to grow, we vironment for various solution build-
Over the past two decades, SSS ’s image sensors create expect that JASM, the new TSMC ers, through which it will be possible
has been at the forefront of imag- unprecedented value fab, will contribute to the stable sup- to e ficiently and relia ly develop
ing innovation, creating numerous “Our CMOS image sensor is an ply of logic wafers not just for SSS, optimal systems in which the edge
orld-firsts’ in the field o analog device in which the ability but also for the overall industry,” and the cloud work together.
image sensors, and this has led to its to integrate becomes extremely explains Mr. Shimizu. “Also, from All of these developments have
current market share leadership. As important in order to realize char- the perspective of the Japanese een uelled y ’s commitment
a result of such innovation by SSS acteristics such as sensitivity and semiconductor industry as a whole, to supporting the creation of the
and other players, CMOS image minimal noise. This is an area where if the establishment of JASM stimu- “Sensing Society”. “In every aspect
sensors have surpassed the once- SSS can differentiate itself from lates the activities of partner and and day by day, we are working on
superior CCD sensor – boasting high competitors. As we combine image service companies that support its the evolution of technology and the
frame rate and high image quality sensors and AI for a wide variety production activities, it might lead improvement of corporate values. To
with improved noise performance of applications, we expect further to the revitalization of the industry, that end, we must enhance our pres-
and low power consumption. product and customer diversifica- which we highly welcome.” ence in society and evoke a favorable
CMOS, therefore, is increasingly tion to enhance the business.” Even in the rapidly chang- response from various stakehold-
the sensor of choice when it comes With unstoppable growth in ing market environment of the ers as well as the large number of
to the aforementioned applications, the image sensor market, SSS has semiconductor industry, SSS has partner companies. This is extremely
and SSS sees an ambitious future significantly ramped up capital always refined its technological important for talented personnel
ahead. Having increased its custom- expenditure investment, forecast- capabilities to overcome one chal- all over the world to choose our
er base and achieved a high market ing a 900-billion-yen spend be- lenge a ter another. n the field o company,” says Mr. Shimizu.
share over the past few years, the tween 2021 and 2023. Part of this smartphones, SSS anticipates mid- e e pect the ensing ociety’
company is also leveraging its core money has funded the expansion to-long term technological evolu- is imminent and in such a society,
competencies in monozukuri (Japa- of its Nagasaki Technology Cen- tion in the areas of still images and sensing technology will become an
nese manufacturing craftsmanship) ter’s a as loo s to e pand videos. In line with its unwavering important foundation. Sensing is a
to expand models and services for production capacity. Moreover, commitment to provide new imag- key element in the development of
sensing applications. the company has also decided to ing experiences, the company is o and in all fields such as mo-
“Our core competencies in mono- participate in the establishment working on image sensor develop- bile, automotive, industry, and VR/
zukuri lie in world-class advanced of Japan Advanced Semiconduc- ment that will enable smartphone AR applications such as the Meta-
technology and the ability to inte- tor Manufacturing (JASM), the cameras to offer features such as verse. Image sensors can gather a
grate these technological capabilities majority-owned manufacturing super HDR (High Dynamic Range) considerable amount of information
through a series of processes – from subsidiary of TSMC. With this images and high-speed reading at which makes us believe that their
design to development and manu- strategic investment in JASM, 8K for video. Thanks to its continu- potential and contribution can be
facturing – at a high level. All these SSS aims to secure a stable supply ous innovation, SSS is leading the particularly profound. Toward an
competencies are supported by our of logic semiconductors that are way towards a new era of superior enriched sensing society backed by
advanced manufacturing technology later stacked with pixel chips and smartphone imaging. sa ety security and high e ficiency
and quality control system,” says SSS contribute to the enhancement of In the automotive industry, the we will continue to pursue image
president and CEO, Terushi Shimizu. the supply chain in Japan. focus for the future is on advanced sensor technology.”
CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

SCREEN targets sustainable diversification

through core technologies
Building on the record-breaking fiscal performance of last year, SCREEN Holdings is
steadfast in its commitment to innovative and sustainable solutions.

Cell3iMager duos2 Imaging and “After over 150 years of

Analysis System
history, we would like
tional environmental initiative. to continue to diversify
“These are just some of our under-
takings as we increasingly focus on
and create a complete
ESG criteria in an effort to become portfolio, targeting life
a more sustainable corporation,” sciences as well as the
SCREEN Holdings, headquar- says Mr. Hiroe. “Within the energy field.”
tered in Kyoto, is a leading company, ideas
semiconductor and electronics and programs Toshio Hiroe,
company, manufacturing and that contrib- President,
selling semiconductor produc- ute to the SCREEN Holdings Co., Ltd..
tion equipment, display produc- environment
tion equipment, graphic arts are solicited, clients in the semiconductor
equipment and PCB-related and awards industry, from whom we re-
equipment. are given for ceive requests in equipment
The SCREEN Group trac- achievements. development,” adds Mr. Hiroe.
es its history back over 150 Through our “In addition, based on those or-
years to Ishida Kyokuzan efforts, we are ders we receive, we can produce
Printing Works, a lithographic trying to raise the inter- efficiently, as well as being able
printing shop founded in Kyoto SU-3300 Single Wafer Cleaner est of everyone in our company to reduce unnecessary costs
in 1868, with the company going to keep working toward solving throughout the supply chain.
on to produce Japan’s first pho- CEO. “Even in the current era environmental issues.” In short, we have successfully
tographic glass screens, which of rapid digital transformation SCREEN Holdings is also achieved smart production.”
eventually led to the establish- (DX) based on the increasing working to create a more envi- Going forward, to enhance
ment of an independent venture use of artificial intelligence and ronmentally friendly semicon- profitability, SCREEN Holdings
company, Dainippon Screen. Af- the Internet of things, we have ductor industry in general, the is strengthening in-house efforts
ter many decades of growth, been able to maintain a strong CEO stresses. and investment in R&D to create
Dainippon Screen was finally presence as a leading global “We have to admit the fact that new solutions for its clients.
renamed into SCREEN Holdings manufacturer of cutting-edge semiconductor plants use a lot In terms of expanding its
alongside a group restructure. production equipment.” of chemical substances, gasses, operations, the energy-related
“Since our founding, we have Throughout its long history, clean water and heat and gener- field is an area the company is
continued to develop vari- SCREEN has sought to continu- ate considerable emissions, which targeting, alongside life science.
ous related businesses in the ously refine technologies in three have a significant environmental “We want to think about how
printing industry while also core areas: surface processing, impact. As a manufacturer of to invest and what we can do for
significantly expanding the direct imaging and image pro- manufacturing equipment, we the next generation of society
scope of our operations to in- cessing. “These technologies are need to address this issue from that will promote a decarbonized
clude semiconductors,” explains our foundation, and we are now both sides. We have to reduce “hydrogen society”. As a firm
To s h i o H i r o e , President and using them in our role as a solu- the emissions in the equipment that has existed for 150 years,
tion creator to help solve many manufacturing process. After we would like to keep showing
of the challenges being faced by supplying our products to our the meaning of our existence
modern society,” says Mr. Hiroe. clients, we likewise need to think through corporate activities. We
In addition, SCREEN is a about how to reduce the emis- want to move forward and bring
signatory to the United Na- sions in the client’s manufacturing about business opportunities for
tions Global Compact and Sus- process or minimize the use of the next generation.”
tainable Development Goals water or heat.
(SDGs). The Group is also a “One of the reasons for our
LeVina Direct participant in Science Based success is our great and reli-
Imaging System Targets (SBT), a key interna- able relationship with our www.screen.co.jp/en
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Samco: The key player supporting

the semiconductor industry
As the semiconductor industry continues to grow rapidly every year, Samco’s
manufacturing equipment will become ever more valuable.
Standing out from the crowd Cluster tool system Cluster HTM
“Our business
requires confidence and unique- less harm to the environment
ness. Japanese semiconductor
strategies than traditional methods.
expert Samco has managed to focus on high With American firms being
distinguish itself from its com- end products.” amongst its first ever customers
petitors through its unparalleled Samco has always understood
commitment to small-batch, Osamu Tsuji, the importance of global mar-
high-quality products rather Chairman & CEO, kets. This has led to the company
than mass-produced goods. Samco Inc. establishing a base on the West
Founded in 1979 in a leased coast of the U.S., and it is in the
garage in Kyoto, the company process of launching another base
has grown its global reputation in India as it seeks to expand
for quality in the semiconduc- further into the Asian market.
tor manufacturing fields of de- Samco’s innovative products
position, etching and surface will be the driving force be-
treatment. As company Chair- minimizing the environ- hind this expansion. As Mr. Tsuji
man Osamu Tsuji explains, mental impact of its says: “We would like to continue
Samco’s success is based on products, and its Liquid opening ourselves up and being
three principles: “avoiding Source Chemical Vapor a pioneer in the innovation of
mass production, focusing on Deposition (LSCVD) new technology.”
smaller products, and being technology does just
environmentally conscious”. that. By using a liquid
For over 40 years, Samco has source, the technology
understood the importance of emits less CO 2 and causes ICP Etching System LSCVD System www.samco.co.jp/en

Sanyu Rec: Resins for industrial development

n the e tremely competitive field of epo y resins, and particularly the li uid epo y
resin bonds market, Sanyu Rec has distinguished itself from competitors to become
an industry leader.
tors and LEDs, construction and Sanyu Rec has managed to distin-
industrial products, and composite guish itself from competitors.
materials – developing resins spe- “I think it is because we are
cifically or each field. always looking to satisfy our cus-
“We’ve made our name thanks to tomer’s needs. I would also say
our responsiveness in accommodat- our products and services don’t
ing rapidly and positively to our really overlap with our counter-
customer requirements, develop- parts,” explains Mr. Nagai.
Going forward, Sanyu Rec has its
eyes set on servicing the automotive
ur firm as selected industry’s transition to electric ve-
as one of the top 100 hicles, with manufacturers moving
global niche companies away from heavy metals such as
iron to more lightweight materials
operating in Japan.” li e car on fi er-rein orced poly-
mers (CFRPs) and compounds. but also focus on economical
Koichiro Nagai, Potting urethane resin for PCB contributions by improving con-
President, Sanyu Rec Co., Ltd.
ing expertise based on know-how ventional uel e ficiency. or e -
Established in 1958, Sanyu Rec accumulated over 50 years, and ample, we are working to reduce
has consistently applied its efforts technical abilities polished through the weight of automotive struc-
to the research, development, and participation in fields at the leading- tural materials by using foamed
manufacture of synthetic resins. To- edge of technology,” says Koichiro epoxy compounds and to secure
day, the company is one of Japan’s Nagai, President of Sanyu Rec. the rigidity of automobiles.”
foremost resin manufacturers and In the extremely competitive Formula car
has established four business areas: field o epo y resins and particu- “Our resin products are not
electronic products, semiconduc- larly the liquid epoxy resin market, only environmentally friendly, www.sanyu-rec.jp/en
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Unparalleled expertise in plastic films and packaging

for the semiconductor and automotive sectors
Since its foundation in , CE Corporation has been an indispensable provider of plastic films and
packaging for global industry.
fers to a product or business
model that is one of a kind, or
“We’re a highly impossible to replicate.
motivated collective “I believe that the level of sat-
of talented individuals isfaction of the customers with
working together, the products or business model –
© 2022, Takenaka Corporation
striving to overcome which ultimately determines the
level of Dantotsu – also sets each New SOLUBLON factory
any challenges company’s competitive edge,” ex-
that lie ahead.” plains Mr. Morita. “The differences solu le film hich has een idely
that lead to customer satisfaction used in single unit dose detergents
Satoshi Morita, indicate not only tangible aspects, across China, the U.S. and Europe.
President & CEO, such as product quality, price and “Currently, we are focusing
AICELLO Corp. delivery, but also intangible as- our efforts on the existing ap-
pects like business marketing, plications of our water-soluble
production know-how and respon- film ” says r. orita. hrough
With close to a century of ex- “I decided we should con- sibility for the customer needs. It our R&D, we are also pursuing
perience, AICELLO Corporation centrate on our best and most is important for us to strategically further discoveries for applica-
has remained at the forefront value-added products: our clean design Dantotsu in our business, tions o the film including those
of the plastic film and packag- technology (Clean containers, and I feel that Dantotsu should be related to the manufacturing of
ing industry, evolving with the HYPERCLEANTM Films), anticor- a necessary condition for Japa- electronic materials.”
times over the decades. After rosion film and ater nese companies to compete in the Key to the ongoing success of
realizing the environmental solu le film . global market.” SOLUBLON is the new factory
impact of its cellophane pro- These three products became This ability to work on the that is under construction, one
duction, the company’s core the focus of our marketing strat- international stage is seen as that will allow production to in-
business shifted to polyethylene egy, and represented a dramatic a valuable opportunity by Mr. crease and provide stability of
films and bottles in the 1970s, downsizing of our portfolio.” Morita, especially as the Japa- supply as demand grows.
and that sustainability-led deci- “Our clean packaging technol-
sion has been a driving force of ogy is really one of a kind,” he
product and business develop- stresses, adding that huge value
ment ever since. is being created in “supporting the
“While the 17 U.N. Sustainable semiconductor industry through
Development Goals (SDGs) are the high purity process chemical
widely known today, AICELLO packaging and manufacturing
has long had a similar sense of equipment parts packaging.”
urgency about the environmen- Despite a potential early hit
tal impact of our business,” says to profitability in some areas,
company president and CEO Sa- the company’s clean technology
toshi Morita. goals and vision for semicon-
ductor manufacturing, along
with a continued role in the au-
tomotive industry, and overseas CLEANBARRIER™ (CB) Bottles
growth, made it an astute move,
with success and profitability nese working population, and Although North America and
maintained through these three knock-on spending power, con- urope play a significant role in
core products. tinues to contract. the business strategy, especially
In fact, Mr. Morita himself That constant strive for com- “The shrinking in the domestic for the BOSELON business, the
introduced the company-wide petitive advantage is also dem- market serves as a catalyst for needs of loyal customers in the
business strategy known as ‘CBS’ onstrated through AICELLO’s expanding overseas, so we have regional Asian market are also
(Clean, BOSELON, SOLUBLON) concept of Dantotsu, which re- been employing our most suitable being well catered to by the
back in 2008 when he was mar- strategies to expand and introduce three major locations in Malay-
keting director. “The goal behind our products to an international sia, Shanghai and Japan.
this strategy was to present a audience. In contrast to a stagnant “The automotive industry
clear way of demonstrating our domestic mar et e are profiting growth in Asia and beyond,
core technologies, competitive from overseas markets, which ac- with just-in-time production
advantages, and how we add count for 45% of our total sales. as a fundamental requirement,
value through our manufacturing We are aiming to grow our busi- means geographical proximity is
activities,” he explains, adding ness even more abroad.” essential,” states the company
that this involved scaling down Quality Control: Cleanliness Part of that growing success for president, eyeing a bright and
the company’s product portfolio. Measurement the company has been its water clean future ahead.
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Let’s keep on creating new value.

AICELLO will continue to create
new value and bring its technology
to the global market.
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Automation technology supporting

the world’s key industries
Through a diverse and comprehensive product line-up, CKD Corporation will play
a key role in automating the factories of the future.
Established in 1943, CKD Corpo- It is worth noting, of course, the aim of achieving carbon neu-
ration has been engaged in the that the company is already a ma- trality by 2050.
research and development of auto- jor global player, with its chemical In particular, Mr. Kajimoto
mation and uid control technolo- valves for semiconductor manu- highlights the company’s long-
gies for almost 80 years. facturing equipment occupying life products, which are used in
With a commitment to new a high market share worldwide. production lines in all industrial
technology and high-quality prod- And it is the semiconductor indus- sectors. With a lifespan four times
ucts, CKD has been able to dif- try, a rapidly-changing sector, on longer than conventional products, “In the years to come,
ferentiate itself from competitors which CKD has pledged to focus customers are no longer required we are aiming to
while simultaneously developing its efforts in the future. to maintain their machines with become a total FA
and producing a diverse line-up of Though already manufacturing such regularity, leading to an over-
products, which are widely used and selling components which con- all reduction in waste.
worldwide supplier by
within today’s society. trol uids such as li uid chemicals In terms of its international pres- integrating automated
ence, although CKD has tradition- machinery and
ally focused on developing its own component product
technologies without input from technologies.”
other companies, this too is chang-
ing. There is a growing recognition Kazunori Kajimoto,
that increasing partnerships with Representative Director,
domestic and foreign entities leads Chairman & CEO,
to a more e ficient overall service. CKD Corporation
“In order to deliver optimal prod-
Fluid control components for the semiconductor industry ucts, technologies and services to knowledges, CKD’s sales channels
CKD’s business is centered on and process gases for semiconduc- our customers quickly and reliably, are still underdeveloped.
two fields: automated machin- tor device manufacturing facilities, we have established a global sales Not that global expansion is
ery and components. “We have it is anticipated that the market network encompassing Europe, the only thing on Mr. Kajimoto’s
various types of automated ma- will continue to grow long-term. North and South America, and mind. Indeed, as the Corporation
chinery such as lithium-ion bat- With this in mind, CKD has re- Asia,” Mr. Kajimoto adds. approaches its 80th anniversary,
tery manufacturing equipment, cently completed construction of a That network now totals 170 CKD’s chairman is anticipating
packaging machines for pharma- new facility in Komatsu, Ishikawa production sites and bases around what the future holds.
ceuticals and food products, and Prefecture. According to Mr. Ka- the world. In addition to its ex- “As we get older,” he says, “we
inspection machines for electronic jimoto, the aim of the new plant isting five plants in Japan begin to see the whole picture and
circuit boards. The company’s is “to meet the expected increase boasts plants in China, Thailand, think about others in the domestic
component products include air in demand for components for the Malaysia, Korea, Indonesia and society, the international commu-
and electric actuators and uid semiconductor industry”. North America. The last of these, nity, and about the global environ-
control components, which are Alongside its counterpart in completed in April of this year in ment. It is important to accept a
used in all types of manufactur- Kasugai, the new Hokuriku Plant Austin, Texas, has recently begun little inconvenience, rather than
the production of semiconductor simply pursuing material abun-
manufacturing components. dance. In a book of the Chinese
With CKD’s overseas sales ratio philosopher Lao Tzu, there is a
currently standing at about 30%, it phrase about ‘knowing what is
is hoped that the company’s global enough’. It talks about being satis-
e pansion ill see this figure rise fied ith one’s lot. this concept
to 40% in the next four years. This of ‘contentment’ were to spread
will involve an increased focus on throughout the world, I am sure
Europe, where as Mr. Kajimoto ac- that it would be a better place.”
’s o uri u plant in Japan scheduled to e operational in
ing sites, including semiconduc- in Ishikawa will manufacture
tor, automotive and electronic valves for chemical solutions,
parts manufacturing. It is hoped while valves for process gases
that by integrating technologies will be manufactured at the com-
from automated machinery and pany’s Tohoku Plant.
components, CKD corporation will Beyond the semiconductor in-
achieve its aim of becoming a dustry, CKD prides itself on the
global supplier of factory automa- development and marketing of
tion (FA) components,” says chair- products that contribute to the
man and CEO, Kazunori Kajimoto. reduction of CO2 emissions – with Pharmaceutical packaging machines
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

www.ckd.co.jp/en
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Next-generation bonding wires for

the semiconductor industry
As a technology-driven manufacturer of bonding wires, Nippon Micrometal is providing new and innovative
products to support the ever-changing semiconductor sector.
In the 35 years since it was for a more high-density type of
founded, Japan-based Nippon semiconductor,” Dr. Yamada says.
Micrometal has established it- “My goal is to make “On the other hand, in the area of
self as a trusted, expert producer Nippon Micrometal a power semiconductors, we are
of bonding wires for semicon- anticipating a switch to new tech-
ductors, catering for a grow- company recognized all nologies, such as silicon carbide
ing portfolio of industry-leading across the world.” (SiC) technology. For example,
semiconductor manufacturers. with the transition to electric
“The majority of our customers Dr. Takashi Yamada, vehicles, SiC technology will be
are overseas; and these custom- President, Nippon essential for a transition from a
ers are major players globally,” Micrometal Corporation 400-volt to an 800-volt battery
explains Nippon Micrometal’s charging system. We are focused
president, Dr. Takashi Yamada. on developing new types of wires
“As a company, we have three to meet the new challenges in
key strengths, starting with the power semiconductors.”
quality of our products,” Dr. Ya- As well as bonding wires, Nip-
mada continues. “Our customers Al pon Micrometal supplies solder
use our wires as the last step in balls used in the production of
their semiconductor production, semiconductor packages, with
so if the wire bonding were to fail, the tin-silver-copper-nickel LF35
the whole process must be dis- Bare Cu Au Micro Ball a headline product.
carded and would be considered “We started developing the LF35
a waste. With that in mind, you when mobile phones became
can understand why reliability popular – it has high reliability
and high quality are essential and connectivity,” Dr. Yamada
to our business. Secondly, we says. “What we have invented
provide aftercare to customers is a unique composition of metal
and should any issues arise when based on our own technology.”
using our products, we are ready International expansion is a ma-
and willing to provide solutions jor focus at Nippon Micrometal,
for them. Technological support which since the turn of the millen-
is one very strong advantage that EX (PCC) nium has established subsidiaries
Ag
we provide. Lastly, we conduct in China, Malaysia and the Philip-
R&D in advance and consider pines. “We would like to continue
potential future trends. With to expand overseas, and ultimately
our cutting-edge technology, we abled our customers to reduce with all the advancements in the establish a base in each locality
develop our products tailored costs significantly. semiconductor field. that we operate in,” Dr. Yamada
to individual companies’ needs.” “Thirty percent of semicon- hen the transistor as first says. With a number of countries
Chief among the next-genera- ductor packages still use gold invented, there was only a single eager to grow their domestic pro-
tion products developed at Nip- wires, so we continue to work on wire on a surface. But now we duction of semiconductors, he is
pon Micrometal is the Advanced the further replacement of these see a semiconductor package confident that the company ill
Copper Wire EX, which allows gold wires,” he adds. that requires more than 1,500 enefit rom this drive urrently
customers to make major savings. In addition to replacing gold ires. t is e tremely di ficult to the production of semiconductors
“Copper wire has always had an with alternative materials, a keep those wires from touching is centered around Taiwan and
issue with oxidation, but we over- continual focus of Nippon Mi- each other and causing a short China, but by diversifying, we are
came this by selecting palladium crometal’s R&D efforts is the circuit. Wires are now down to creating a very advantageous situ-
as a coating material and control- ever-increasing miniaturization the size of 16 microns and even ation in terms of our business con-
ling the palladium metal coating at of electronic devices. “Miniatur- smaller, which would be less tinuity plan. e find no negativity
a nano level,” Dr. Yamada explains. ization is having an impact on than one-fourth the thickness of in the expansion of local production
“With our unique wire process- our products and we need to a strand of human hair.” and hope to find more opportuni-
ing technologies, we succeeded in continuously improve them to Nippon Micrometal is also ties for ourselves to grow.”
mass-producing palladium-coated cater to the higher densification committed to keeping pace with
copper (PCC) wire. Gold has been of semiconductor packages,” the the evolution of the materials
used in bonding wires for 50 years company chief says. “We must used to make semiconductors. www.nmc-net.co.jp/en_index.html
now, but with prices surging, re- make the diameter of the wire “Currently, our copper, silver,
placing gold wire with PCC wire smaller and keep improving gold and aluminum wire prod-
that is robust against oxidation our wire technology. It is vital ucts are focused on silicon-based
has been very effective and en- that we keep ourselves updated semiconductors which are used www.nscm.nipponsteel.com/english
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Hugle: From novel ideas to solid solutions

for cutting-edge microfabrication
A small company with big ideas, Hugle Electronics is helping to tackle some of the greatest challenges in semiconductor
manufacturing with its range of state-of-the-art micro-particle and electrostatic removal equipment.
“My philosophy is the smaller the On top of removing dust and
business, the better it is,” says contaminants, Hugle’s clients have
Wasaburo Fujimiya, President of recently requested technologies for
Hugle Electronics. “Now more the removal of ammonia, HCl and
than ever, we focus on developing other compounds. This process is
new products and novel ideas.” focused on AMC removal, an area
In an industry dominated by in which the company is researching
“large conglomerates and pow- technologies, while it also has a joint
erful multinationals”, Hugle – a research project with a Kyushu-
company with less than 100 em- based university focused on the re-
ployees – has built a solid reputa- moval of microscopic contaminants,
tion over its 51-year history as as demanded by its clients. Such
an innovative solutions provider extensive R&D serves as testament
in the field o micro-particle and to Hugle’s commitment to develop-
electrostatic removal equipment. ing innovative solutions, and is sure
to bear fruit with the creation of
“Our philosophy is to technologies like the company’s ex-
constantly develop new isting Ultrasonic Dry Cleaner.
products and I believe Hugle’s Ultrasonic Dry Cleaner
that this philosophy will uses ultrasonic vibrating air to ex-
cite particles adhering to the sur-
never change.” face of products before collecting
them with a suction slit without
Wasaburo Fujimiya,
scattering them, later employing
President, Hugle Electronics
a circulating system that purifies
“Hugle’s long-established Static the collected air and reuses it for
Electricity Remover, Ultrasonic discharge. Since its launch in 1976, it
Dry Cleaner and Carrier Cleaning Ionizer fan-type Ionizer has been used in production lines in a
System laid the foundation for Hugle R&D building MODEL1900 wide variety of industries, including
today’s products, contributing to electronics, semiconductors, FPDs,
the development of the semicon- printed circuit boards, and recharge-
ductor at panel display able batteries. And it is in the latter
and lithium-ion attery i in- field in hich ugle’s technology ill
dustries, and improving yields in play an increasingly important role.
cutting-edge microfabrication,” “Recently, dust control in the
adds Mr. Fujimiya. rechargeable battery industry has
Firmly committed to innovation, become an urgent issue,” adds Mr.
Hugle today has tasked itself with Fujimiya. “Because the separators of
solving some of the main challenges high energy density batteries are be-
Cassette & Ultrasonic dry cleaner
in the semiconductor industry – coming thinner, small particles on the
BOX cleaning system
firstly the removal o contaminants termined to steadily pursue electrode can penetrate through the
(including airborne molecular con- crease in performance the path of becoming an separator and cause short circuits.
tamination as semiconduc- will allow our clients eco-friendly and environ- In response, we developed a special
tors and subsequent manufacturing to lower the en- mentally friendly cleaner which can remove particles
processes get increasingly smaller; vironmental bur- manufacturer.” on the electrode effectively.”
and secondly, the reduction of the in- den of their ac- When it comes Moving forward, Hugle will
dustry’s impact on the environment. tivities,” says the to particle and work closely with electric vehicle
One eco-friendly technology re- Hugle president. contaminant makers to offer electrostatic and
cently developed by Hugle is its “When it comes removal, Hugle particle removal solutions for
latest FOUP Cleaning system “SF- to reducing the uti- has strived to LiBs, yet another area in which
300”. Despite being more compact lization of toxic chemi- improve its tech- the company’s long-established
than previous models, the SF-300 cals, our products use as nologies through R&D know-how will help to improve
oasts improved e ficiency hile little organic solvents in order to cater to complex manufacturing processes.
also having a lower environmental and neutral detergents as Multi-cleaning ever-evolving industry
footprint. “By replacing older ma- possible, and water and system SF-300 demands, with the
chines with the SF-300, our cus- air are the main power sources,” company opening a brand new
tomers can double or even triple he adds. “With the power of our R&D center in 2019 to further bol-
their production e ficiency. his in- proprietary technologies, we are de- ster its development capabilities. www.hugle.co.jp
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Human development
key for ABLIC’s analog
semiconductor excellence
Since its rebranding in 2018, ABLIC has become a global leader
in analog semiconductor technologies and solutions.
Nobumasa Ishiai,
epresentative irector resident
nc. www.ablic.com
It all started for ABLIC back in uni ueness throughout the value chains spread across our diversi- chemical engineer and riter .
1970 when its in-house develop- chain, then successfully obtained fied product port olio and glo - While I worked at the Center
ment of complex components led our customers’ understanding of al locations and reali e glo al of Excellence at GE Plastics HQ
to the production of the world’s the optimal price improvement top-class and profita ility.
first practical uart atches. or the total corporate value. It is also known as ‘Sales and
Since its 2018 rebranding, the e call it alue elling’ ” r. perations lanning’. hese are
company has transformed under shiai says. executed with elaborated project
the leadership of its president and “Second, we also strengthened management methods.”
o umasa shiai. seven criteria comprising strate- Mr Ishiai continues: “Now
“The formation of ABLIC in gies and checkpoints for new we have a product portfolio
2018 enabled us to completely product introduction, re-boosting unlike any other semiconduc-
turn around the company’s stag- our core competence and re ect- tor company in the world, fea-
nant situation ” r. shiai says. ing our customer’s needs in the turing a wide array of analog ABLIC bus running in Tokyo
“The company has expanded process. ne o those as hat semiconductor solutions, from in the . . he taught me to e
along with its entry into the elec- e call rising dragon and hori on- battery-less sensors, UV cam- cra y enough’ to have no ear no
tronic devices and sensor busi- tal development’. his entails the eras for aerospace technology, concerns and no hesitation. Just
ness fields ith ne technolo- drastic reallocation of investment and components for automotive concentrate on the objective and
gies such as our highly sensitive, and medical integrated circuits. go or it ith passion.
Bluetooth-linked water detector Targeting these niche markets “Another important lesson I
named - oost.” has allowed us to avoid directly learned was from my mentor,
ABLIC has managed to boost bat- tling with other big Nani Beccalli (former CEO at GE
its annual operational profit ap- competitors, which International), which was about
proximately three-fold and seen is a leading cause of authenticity and the importance
significant improvement in its ailure or many companies. ur o al ays eing yoursel .”
Cash Conversion Cycle (CCC) in strategy is to explore the world Aside from his colleagues, fur-
the last four years – a level of suc- by seeking out global niches ther inspiration came rom r.
CLEAN-Boost’s battery-less
cess comparable to major global within the market, while con- Ishiai’s father when the two went
water leak sensor
semiconductor companies. tinually assessing our specific on an impressive trial run on
and management resources into strengths and understanding the then-new Shinkansen (high-
the est per orming fields o an our ea nesses.” speed ullet train together.
industry, then taking a successful igging deeper into his per- lot of Japan’s technological bril-
case and developing it hori ontally sonal ac ground r. shiai says liance from the past is deeply
across the orld to improve profit- “My diverse leadership experi- rooted in my memory,” he re-
a ility. his is hat e call alue ence and lengthy career in manu- veals. ithin a short time rame
roducts’ ” he e plains. n addition facturing allow me to bring a I want to see the revival of Japan
y utili ing the strengths o as the technical innovator of the
(integrated device manufacturing orld. a ing root rom the cul-
Clean room at Takatsuka Unit including both wafer and packag- ture of mono u uri, we will push
in Chiba ing) to swiftly try out new products ABLIC forward as a global com-
These impressive gains in the in the departments responsible for pany, with international employ-
company’s value can be boiled the development, manufacturing, ees all working towards the same
down to three main measures, marketing and sales, including full progressive future, as a part of
which were enacted at ABLIC involvement of branding promotion, the ine ea itsumi group.
along with the original company’s e achieve uic er e pansion o “Here at ABLIC, I will pass down
foundational strength and based sales a ter the initial launch period. Sign board at Tokyo all my experience to my staff, simi-
on r. shiai’s ormer manage- “Our third measure is to im- International Airport lar to the way a semiconductor
ment experience of more than prove sales and purchasing seasoned perspective to the ta le. or s rom input to output.”
years in five glo al companies. forecast accuracy, external fab- I learned a lot from gifted leaders It is important to remember
“First, instead of cost-con- rication, and inventory controls; overseas, including Jack Welch that ABLIC is an analog semicon-
scious sales, we presented our create more streamlined supply [American business executive, ductor company not a digital one.
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

“Being an analog semiconduc- a problem into a solution. It re- to work with new design houses
tor maker requires a specific ally is a balancing act, because and external professionals both
type of craftsmanship and a customers do not just demand a in Japan, and overseas. Further-
highly detailed design process,” suitable price, they also demand more, we are collaborating with
Mr. Ishiai explains, “but the re- a specific unction in a sustain- a number of renowned univer-
sult is a highly valuable and in- able way.” sity professors to develop new
telligent product that cannot be Although we are a Japanese technologies.
found elsewhere. I want more company, ABLIC ventures far be- “Regarding international busi-
people to know this truth soon, yond its borders. “Our efforts and ness partners, we see no borders,”
because the current state of customers are on a global scale,” a firms the president. herever
our world not only demands our says Mr. Ishiai, “with sales and there is a need, we are willing to
product, but will benefit from it. design conducted in the United work together with others. We
It will make the world a smaller, States and Europe, and produc- are focusing on current global
smarter and simpler place to live tion measures operating in vari- objectives and trends where we
in line with the SDGs (U.N. Sus- ous locations across Asia.” can present our niche product
tainable Development Goals).” Maintaining this strong global applications to showcase our
“My credo has been shaped by Banner ad in Ginza, Tokyo position in the industry is a prior- superior technological strength
my past experiences; that is, to ity for ABLIC. “Currently 70% and quality. Our strategy moving
live life with humility, warmth, Along with its logo, Mr. Ishiai of our sales come from outside forward is to expand our presence
and gratitude,” adds Mr. Ishiai. says “it conveys our corporate
“This mindset is born from mono- vision of inspiring customers with
zukuri , reflecting the strength ‘Small, Smart, and Simple’ ana-
of Japanese companies, often log semiconductor solutions. This
defined by their high quality. strong branding strategy is a dif-
Product management and speed ferentiating factor among other
are crucial embodiments of this B2B companies, and is a leading
culture, but I believe the most reason for why our employees are
important aspect is the people in proud of where they work.
the company. They are the ones The president makes it clear
making the changes and pushing that the company vision of “Small,
the company forward. Even if you mart imple” is re ected across
have the greatest product in the the eight unique product lines of
world, if the people working for its portfolio, all of which are in
the company are unmotivated, the line with U.N. SDGs.
product won’t be improved and “We are always looking for
sales will drop. Inspiring motiva- more natural and renewable re-
tion within our employees is on sources to utilize,” he says. “Our Monozukuri craftmanship, transitioning over generations
the top of my list, allowing us to portfolio consists entirely of ana-
innovate and achieve continuous log semiconductor products, and Japan, and we are looking to in Europe and the U.S., where we
sustainable growth.” we have a good eye for quality.” increase that further. I put the see the highest potential.”
With some exciting products in company’s impressive ability to Although the situation is
“The current state of the pipeline, Mr. Ishiai highlights accomplish this in such a short already positive for the com-
our world demands that the company’s R&D focuses period of time down to the work pany, Mr. Ishiai is still looking
our intelligent product, mainly on new applications and ethic of our employees,” says towards the future with a sharp
which will make it a components for products rather Mr. Ishiai. eye for improvement.
than new products themselves. “We are organized in such a “Added value, in my opinion,
safer, smarter and “We see this as a more direct, im- way as to minimize lost time and not only comes from manufactur-
simpler place to live.“ mediate and targeted approach bottlenecks, and to identify im- ing high-end products, but also
to support the customer,” he ex- provements in each process for from the enthusiastic branding of
ABLIC recognizes that mono- plains. “You could actually call it the enefit o our customers. y ABLIC, the continuation of product
zukuri is not only important application development rather having a geographically diverse development, superior sales and
in the manufacturing process than research and development. operation, we can be sure that support, and employee satisfac-
but is deeply connected to cus- For example, our CLEAN-Boost all o our customers enefit rom tion, which in turn deliver the best
tomer satisfaction. technology takes only a few drops our total service solution. Being customer satisfaction. This is our
“In the Japanese language, the of water and turns it into energy. located all around the world, we monozukuri mentality, to be trans-
attitude o ho to ulfill customer This technology unlocks unlim- are able to provide full support lated through the generations.”
satisfaction is called omotenashi, ited possibilities and received to our clients wherever they are.
a principal goal for us,” says Mr. an admirable award from IEEE We pride ourselves on our quick
Ishiai. “This is achieved through (Institute of Electrical and Elec- communication that allows us to
our strengths stated above; it is tronics Engineers) in the United answer customer inquiries within
a fully interconnected process.” States following its release in the a 24-hour window, no matter
The branding of ABLIC, a market. We are exploring new where in the world they are.”
name created from ABLE and applications for this technology Another important aspect is
IC (integrated circuit), expresses related to water leakage sensors working together with other high-
that semiconductor technology or residential or o fice uildings level global professionals.
enables possibilities, and has and also ithin the nursing field. “We currently have some new
been key to the company’s suc- I think application development collaborations in our develop-
cess across its various operations. is a great approach to transform ment process. We are looking
 CONTENT BY THE WORLDFOLIO

Iwata Shokai president outlines goals for the future

The chemical trading company, established in the early twentieth century and known for its versatility, is targeting
three specific sectors and looking to make transformative changes in the construction industry.
laboration with other companies supply system, while globally the
means that Iwata Shokai supplies phrase ade in Japan’ is still a
products to a wide range of indus- byword for quality.
trial sectors. he company’s u- Semiconductors and sensors
ton sealant product, for instance, are also related to CT scans and
could lead to important develop- are used in diagnosis services,
ments in the construction industry, providing a potential access point
with Southeast Asia serving as a to the medical or life sciences
primary target for expansion. industry the second o r. ata’s
ut ata ho ai’s immediate aforementioned targets. To this New-type sealant for buildings
focus is on three sectors in par- end, a subsidiary of Iwata Shokai, amount of clean energy. The
ticular semiconductors li e sci- TOSC, has recently been selling country’s goal instead should
ences and plastics. The company membranes that bring new pro- e to contri ute to the glo al
environment through the power
o chemistry”.
e ant to develop recycling
t is our mission to technologies that can contribute
create new products to a recycling-oriented society ”
for people all over Dr. Iwata reveals.
the orld.” Looking to the future, the
company hopes to expand from
Takuya ata, h. ., Thailand to other countries in
President, Southeast Asia and is actively
. . seeking overseas foreign employ-
ees from countries such as India,
Established in 1902 as a chemical China and Russia. As Dr. Iwata
trading company, Iwata Shokai states diversity is ey”.
has been dealing with acid and ith Japan acing ell-docu-
alkaline products in Japan and mented demographic issues re-
around the world for more than lated to its birth rate, aging popu-
a century. lation and subsequent shrinking
According to company presi- workforce, it may be necessary for
dent, Takuya Iwata, inorganic already caters to Japan’s semi- Iwata Shokai to replicate its col-
chemistry is at the heart of the conductor ecosystem by selling cesses to the food industry as well
firm’s usiness norganic chemi- machines to semiconductor and as the medical industry.
cals are not only valuable as ma- silicon wafer manufacturers. he company’s third area o
terials themselves, but play an The acquisition of a new fac- ocus is plastics. ecoming car-
tory in Kumamoto (a hub for the bon neutral is one of the main
semiconductor industry) for main- challenges that many companies
tenance purposes, meanwhile, and societies are now facing. As
should ensure that Iwata Shokai a result firms are ocusing on
meets its stated aim of chemical recycla les ” r. ata
providing the adds. ne e ample is
highest uality the development of laborative domestic model over-
High-quality sealant of semiconduc- technology to pro- seas. Dr. Iwata is adamant that the
tors” to cus- duce polymers company needs to research which
important role in the production tomers both using carbon countries ma e specific chemicals
process as basic raw materials in domestically dioxide from and build multiple supply chains
all industrial fields.” and overseas. conventional ased on its findings.
nd hile ata ho ai’s pri- Issues re- exhaust gas- More broadly, of course, the
ority is to provide customers lated to the ses as a car- priority is still the environment
with a stable supply of high- coronavirus Cell preservation solution on source.” – an issue that has been at the
uality products the firm di er- pandemic may have caused dis- Carbon neutrality, however, heart o the company’s endeav-
entiates itself from competitors ruption to supply chains, but they doesn’t mean the total elimina- ors since it began.
through the presence of its own have also obliged Japanese com- tion of petroleum and carbon re- e have een loo ing a ter
chemical manufacturing com- panies, which, according to Dr. sources. Rather, it is a question the environment or years ’
pany uto hemical. e are not ata have een traditionally of making effective use of what r. ata says and ill continue
only a trading company; we also ocused on e panding out ards” is already there to ma e good to do so.”
produce unctional materials ” to switch their focus back to Ja- use” o chemical reactions.
Dr. Iwata explains. pan. Creating strong domestic re- As an isolated, mainly moun-
The ability to manufacture new lationships is an advantage when tainous country, Japan may find
materials and create them in col- it comes to maintaining a stable it difficult to produce a large www.iwata-cc.jp/index.php/en