Japan’s Semiconductor Ambitions Advance as Rapidus Aims to Deliver 2nm Chip Pilot Production

Japan is one step closer to making a strong comeback in advanced chip manufacturing as Rapidus, a government-supported startup, has started testing its pilot line for 2-nanometer chips with the goal to deliver prototype samples by July 2025. 

If successful, this would put Japan back on the map alongside major players like TSMC, Intel, and Samsung in the global chip industry. 

Rapidus began the testing phase in April 2025, marking a key moment in its development plan. The company is working on a tight schedule, and reaching the July target will be a big test of its capabilities. 

To help make this happen, the Japanese government has pledged about $5.4 billion in subsidies as part of its 2025 budget, showing Japan’s commitment to bringing chip production back home, especially with global supply chain issues and rising geopolitical tensions. 

The 2nm chips Rapidus is working on promise better performance and energy savings. They are expected to play a big role in future technologies like artificial intelligence, smartphones, and electric vehicles. 

Industry experts are watching closely. The next few months will be crucial in seeing whether Rapidus can meet its goals—and whether Japan can regain a leading role in the high-tech chip industry.