UMC & Polar Collaborate…..
UMC and Polar Collaborate to Meet Growing Demand for U.S. Onshore Semiconductor Manufacturing
United Microelectronics Corporation (NYSE: UMC; TWSE: 2303), a leading global semiconductor foundry, and Polar Semiconductor, LLC, a U.S.–owned and operated foundry specializing in high-voltage, power, and sensor technologies, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore a strategic collaboration aimed at expanding U.S.-based 8-inch wafer production. The initiative focuses on delivering scalable, high-quality manufacturing capacity for industries such as automotive, data centers, consumer electronics, and aerospace & defense.
Under the terms of the MOU, the two companies will work together to identify specific devices that Polar will produce at its newly expanded 8-inch facility in Minnesota. By combining Polar’s established manufacturing expertise with UMC’s extensive 8-inch technology portfolio and global customer network, the partnership is positioned to create significant growth opportunities for both organizations. It will also help customers implement robust multi-sourcing strategies while enhancing supply chain resilience amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
Strengthening domestic production of 8-inch wafers will support critical U.S. supply needs across power semiconductors essential to electric vehicles, grid infrastructure, automated manufacturing, and data center systems—reinforcing the importance of secure, locally manufactured components.
“The partnership supports Polar’s mission to meet rising demand for domestic semiconductor manufacturing and for onshored solutions from both U.S. and international customers,” said Ken Obuszewski, Vice President of Marketing at Polar. “With strong customer relationships and a specialized technology portfolio, collaborating with UMC demonstrates Polar’s capability to deliver high-value foundry services in power and sensor technologies.”
Oliver Chang, Senior Vice President of Global Sales at UMC, added, “UMC is dedicated to empowering our customers through a wide range of foundry technologies and geographically diversified manufacturing options. We are pleased to work with Polar to explore new markets and applications. This collaboration directly responds to the growing demand for made-in-USA semiconductor manufacturing and reflects UMC’s commitment to providing innovative, mutually beneficial solutions.”
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