研究半导体设备、材料，为什么应该去一次日本？

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the importance of the Japanese semiconductor industry, highlighting its strengths in upstream semiconductor materials and equipment despite its relatively low profile in the global market [4]. Industry Overview - Since Trump's administration, high-intensity tariff policies have significantly impacted the global semiconductor supply chain, leading to increased attention on Asian semiconductor industries, particularly in China, Japan, and South Korea [3]. - Japan's semiconductor industry, while understated, maintains a dominant position in several key categories of semiconductor materials, with Japanese companies leading in three out of five categories in a new survey for 2024 [4]. Market Position - In the field of photoresists, Tokyo Ohka Kogyo holds a 22.8% market share, with leading Japanese companies collectively accounting for 75.9% of the market. In silicon wafers, Shin-Etsu Chemical leads with a 24.7% share, and three Japanese companies dominate the photomask substrate market [4]. Technical Expertise - The semiconductor materials and equipment market is characterized by smaller market sizes and lower profit margins, but it requires high technical expertise. Japan's "artisan spirit" and extreme emphasis on fundamental research have allowed it to create a unique monopolistic barrier in this field [4]. Event Participation - SEMICON Japan is highlighted as a crucial opportunity for deeper insights into the Japanese semiconductor industry. The event is organized by SEMI and is recognized as one of the most influential semiconductor industrial exhibitions globally [5]. - The upcoming SEMICON Japan 2025 will feature participation from over 1,100 companies and organizations from 35 countries, with a significant number of local Japanese enterprises [5]. Business Exploration - The company plans to organize a six-day business exploration trip to Japan, focusing on SEMICON Japan 2025, which includes visits to local semiconductor companies and universities to gain a comprehensive understanding of the industry atmosphere [5][8]. - The exploration aims to facilitate efficient connections between local semiconductor enterprises and participants, enhancing collaboration opportunities [7]. Experience and Optimization - The company has extensive experience in organizing overseas business explorations, having led over a hundred executives to various countries for industry insights and networking since early 2018. Each trip has been optimized based on feedback and industry needs [9][12].