U.S.-based semiconductor company Onsemi is exploring a substantial USD 2 billion investment to enhance its chip manufacturing capabilities, with potential expansion sites in the U.S., South Korea, or Czechia.

Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala has emphasized the significant impact of Onsemi establishing a chip manufacturing facility in Rožnov pod Radhoštěm on the Czech economy. Fiala regards this potential investment as a strategic priority for the Czech Republic, highlighting the crucial role of semiconductor production in bolstering the competitiveness of both the Czech Republic and Europe.

The Prime Minister also noted the increasing demand for computer chips, particularly in sectors such as energy and automotive. This surge in demand is attributed to global challenges like the coronavirus pandemic and the conflict in Ukraine. Fiala underscores the importance of European semiconductor projects, ideally situated in the Czech Republic, in response to these challenges.

The Czech government is committed to supporting investments in the semiconductor and battery production industries. Anticipated legislative changes to investment laws, which are crucial for facilitating such investments, are expected to be discussed and potentially enacted in parliament early next year.