EU aims for 20% global chip market by 2030; Lithuania seeks strategic role despite investment hurdles.
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The European Union aims for the global market share of semiconductors to reach 20 percent by 2030. Lithuania views the semiconductor industry as a strategic national and European security priority, as these components are essential for advanced technologies like AI, defense, space, and energy. The Ministry of Economy and Innovation (EIMIN) seeks to establish Lithuania as a reliable part of the European semiconductor ecosystem, leveraging its strengths in areas like wide-band semiconductors and THz technologies to attract major investments. However, the Lithuanian industry federation criticizes the lack of concrete action, citing challenges such as high investment costs, labor shortages, and bureaucratic hurdles, while also noting contradictory policies regarding immigration and taxation. Internationally, France plans to invest €2.9 billion in STMicroelectronics, facing local opposition regarding resource consumption, while Italy is investing over €4 billion in the sector but is criticized for potentially lagging behind advanced innovations. Competition for investment is fierce, as evidenced by Intel’s planned investment in Italy being considered after initial consideration of Poland, with internal uncertainties cited as potential reasons for project delays. Experts stress that without clear incentives and strategic support, Lithuania risks losing its potential in semiconductor manufacturing.
