WISeKey's Extensive Expertise Lays the Foundation for the Development of a Semiconductor Manufacturing Project in Switzerland

Core Message - WISeKey is launching a major semiconductor fabrication facility (fab) project in Switzerland to enhance the country's self-reliance in chip production and position Switzerland as a hub in the semiconductor industry [1] WISeKey's Expertise and Vision - WISeKey has extensive expertise in semiconductors through its subsidiary SEALSQ Corp, which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products [2] - The company aims to reduce reliance on foreign semiconductor manufacturing and enhance global supply chain security through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) [2] - WISeKey's vision includes establishing local semiconductor personalization centers to ensure a consistent supply of essential microchips, particularly for industries like automotive, aerospace, and healthcare [13][14] Semiconductor Fab Project in Switzerland - The project will start with a mini fab and gradually expand into a full-scale semiconductor fab over the next 10 years, with initial costs ranging from $100 million to$1.5 billion [4] - The phased approach allows for manageable investment, initial production capabilities, and flexibility to scale operations in line with technological advancements and market demands [4] - The fab will mitigate Switzerland's reliance on semiconductor imports, enhance domestic chip production, create jobs, and attract further investments in the technology sector [5] National and Economic Benefits - Technological Sovereignty: The fab will reduce Switzerland's dependency on foreign semiconductor suppliers, ensuring access to critical chips for industries like healthcare, automotive, aerospace, and IoT [6] - Economic Growth and Job Creation: The project will create thousands of high-skilled jobs and boost Switzerland's economic growth, positioning the country as a leader in the global technology market [6] - Innovation and R&D Hub: The fab will strengthen Switzerland's innovation ecosystem, attracting global companies to invest in R&D in fields like quantum computing, AI, and secure communications [6] - Strengthened Global Supply Chains: Switzerland's fab will contribute to the diversification of the global semiconductor supply chain, making it more resilient against disruptions [6] - Attracting Further Investments: The fab will serve as a magnet for investment in Switzerland's electronics and technology sectors, driving the growth of a high-tech ecosystem [7] Global Semiconductor Landscape - The global semiconductor shortage has prompted major economies to invest heavily in local chip production, with many countries enacting "chips acts" and stimulus packages to support domestic semiconductor industries [8] - Switzerland is positioned to leverage its resources and capabilities to strengthen chip development efforts, fostering a new cluster of semiconductor innovation and contributing to the diversification of the global supply chain [9] Cost Projections and Government Incentives - The cost of building a mini fab ranges from $100 million to$1.5 billion, depending on the technology level, production capacity, and complexity of the chips being manufactured [10][11] - Government incentives for building and operating advanced semiconductor fabs have become increasingly active, providing countries like Switzerland with opportunities to strengthen their semiconductor capabilities [12] Advancements in Post-Quantum Technology - SEALSQ has integrated Kyber and Dilithium CRYSTAL quantum-resistant algorithms into its secure hardware platform, marking a breakthrough in post-quantum technology [16] - The QUASARS project, based on the WISeKey Secure RISC V platform, is paving the way for the Post-Quantum Cryptography era, with strong support from the French Secured Communicating Solutions (SCS) Cluster [17] WISeKey's Role in IoT and Cybersecurity - WISeKey is part of the NIST National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence (NCCoE) project, which aims to establish best practices for trusted IoT device onboarding [18] - The company has deployed over 1.6 billion microchips across various IoT sectors, securing digital identity ecosystems using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies [21][22]