ASM International unveils expansion in Singapore to meet global customer demand for advanced semiconductors

ASM’s Singapore expansion comes amidst recent global chip shortages, and will enable ASM to capitalize on surging demand brought on by accelerated digitalization trends. The facility, including the first manufacturing floor, was completed at the end of 2020. Including the second manufacturing floor, that will be production-ready early 2023, ASM’s capacity in Singapore will quadruple, and global capacity will more than triple. At the Singapore facility ASM assembles and tests its advanced deposition tools, including ALD and Epi, that are critical for the production of leading-edge semiconductor devices. 

The design of the new facility allows for a more efficient manufacturing flow, and a higher level of flexibility, which has been particularly beneficial to cope with the challenges of the industry supply chain constraints recently. 

The ASM Singapore facility was built with sustainability in mind and achieved the Green Mark Gold Plus certification. Aspects including smart building monitoring and energy efficiency, enhanced insulated building envelope and façade performance, greenery incorporated into the design, water efficient fixtures and systems, and sustainable building materials all contributed to this achievement.

“Backed by strong government support, Singapore is the ideal location for our global operations tapping into its highly-educated workforce and leveraging the extensive supply chain ecosystem in the region,” added Loh.

ASM’s Singapore operations have been instrumental in its growth. The local headcount has increased by 2.5x over the last five years to approximately 850 people by the end of 2021. Established in 2003, ASM in Singapore has transitioned over time towards higher value activities. Beyond manufacturing, the Singapore operations today also include key functions such as Supply Chain Management, worldwide IT, and Global People. This transition is illustrated by 50% of the workforce in Singapore having a degree or higher qualification. Managers and professionals account for 42% of the local ASM workforce, of which 60% are Singaporeans.