Core Viewpoint - Asahi Kasei announced an investment of approximately 16 billion yen (about 780 million RMB) to expand the production capacity of PIMEL™ photosensitive polyimide (PSPI) at its factory in Fujisawa, Japan, aiming to double its capacity by 2030. This follows the company's earlier announcement in May regarding a supply cut for PSPI, indicating a significant strategic shift in the market [1][2]. Summary by Sections PSPI Overview - PSPI (Photosensitive Polyimide) is a high-performance polymer material that combines photosensitivity with excellent physical and chemical properties, widely used in semiconductor packaging, advanced packaging processes, and OLED displays. It simplifies the manufacturing process of integrated circuits by allowing direct photolithography without complex etching and stripping steps, enhancing precision [2]. Market Size and Competition - The global market for PSPI used in packaging is projected to reach USD 402 million in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 802 million by 2030. Due to high technical barriers, Japanese and American manufacturers dominate the high-end market, with five major companies (Toray, Fujifilm Electronic Materials, HD Microsystems, Asahi Kasei, and SK Materials) holding approximately 95% of the market share [3]. Domestic PSPI Developments - A review of domestic companies involved in PSPI reveals several key players and their activities: - Hubei Dinglong has developed multiple semiconductor packaging PI products, including non-photosensitive PI and both positive and negative PSPI products, with some already in mass production [4]. - Aisen Co. is actively working on negative PSPI and low-temperature crosslinking PSPI, with plans for mass production in the coming years [4]. - Yuanquan Group has initiated a PSPI industrialization project with a total investment of 2.8 billion RMB, aiming for a production capacity of 2000 tons over three years [4]. - Beijing Bomi Technology has broken a 40-year foreign monopoly in PSPI coating materials, with applications in integrated circuit surface passivation and advanced packaging [4]. - Other companies like Jiangsu Qiangli and Anhui Guofeng are also making strides in PSPI product development and validation [4].