The newly established United Microelectronics Company is considering acquiring stakes in Chinese semiconductor manufacturing factories. This option is being discussed as a way to secure capacities for Russian developers and make chip production more predictable.
This could involve stakes in several small Chinese enterprises that will continue to operate for the domestic market, but some production lines could be allocated for Russian orders. Specific investments and the number of deals have not yet been determined.
The main benefit of this scheme is not obtaining Chinese technologies, but access to production. Shareholder status can simplify obtaining quotas and allow for a clearer understanding of the terms and cost of microchip production in advance. Russian developers, including Baikal, Modul, and Elvis, already place their chip production in China.
However, the purchase of shares itself will not provide access to patents, know-how, or technological documentation – separate agreements will be required for this. Sanction risks could be an additional limitation: a Chinese factory has the right to refuse an investor, especially one associated with the state.
OMK is being created to consolidate the Russian microelectronics industry and develop its own full-cycle production. The company's strategy until 2030 is planned to be approved in 2026, and the state may allocate 750 billion rubles for its development.
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