The newly established United Microelectronics Company (UMC) in Russia is exploring the acquisition of stakes in several Chinese semiconductor factories. The primary objective of these investments is to secure stable access to manufacturing capacity for Russian chip designers, as domestic production currently relies on 90-nanometer processes.
Rather than targeting major industry players, the company is focusing on smaller Chinese facilities. The strategy involves negotiating production quotas or dedicated manufacturing lines to ensure that Russian orders are prioritized. This move aims to mitigate risks associated with limited domestic capabilities and reliance on external manufacturing for advanced processors.
The deal structure focuses on operational capacity rather than technology transfer, as the acquisitions will not grant access to patents or engineering expertise. Instead, the partnership is expected to provide predictable production timelines and stable manufacturing costs for Russian developers.
UMC serves as a consolidation of major Russian microelectronics assets, including Mikron, Angstrem, and NM-Tech. The development plan for the company through 2030 involves a total investment of 1 ₽ trillion. Of this amount, 750 ₽ billion is allocated from state funds, while Sberbank is expected to provide the remaining 250 ₽ billion.
