Core Insights - SMIC made significant strides in the semiconductor industry by reducing prices of 28nm technology by 40%, leading to a rapid increase in market share [1] - Japan dominates the photoresist market, holding approximately 90% of the global share, which poses a risk for countries reliant on imports [1][5] - China has made advancements in developing its own photoresist, specifically the T150A, which has passed mass production verification and is expected to enhance domestic semiconductor capabilities [7][8] Industry Overview - The photoresist market is crucial for semiconductor manufacturing, with Japan maintaining a stronghold on technology and supply [5][10] - Other countries, including the US, Germany, and South Korea, are also involved in the photoresist sector, but Japan's technological advancements have created a significant gap [3][5] - The global market for photoresist is heavily influenced by Japan's supply chain decisions, as evidenced by the four-year suspension of supplies to South Korea, which highlighted the risks of dependency [5][16] Technological Developments - China's T150A photoresist has achieved a resolution of 120nm, surpassing similar foreign products, marking a pivotal moment in reducing reliance on Japanese imports [8][14] - The development of domestic photoresist technology is seen as a critical step towards self-sufficiency in the semiconductor industry, allowing China to mitigate risks associated with potential supply disruptions from Japan [8][14] Competitive Landscape - South Korea has also recognized the need to develop its own photoresist technology, leading to increased domestic production and reduced reliance on Japanese imports [16] - Japan's previous confidence in its market dominance has been challenged by the advancements made by other countries, indicating a shift in the competitive dynamics of the photoresist industry [16]