India is quickly rising as a viable alternative to China in the electronics manufacturing space. Apple, Samsung, and several other brands have started assembling their smartphones and other devices in India. However, India aspires to be much better. It wants to be a powerful player in AI and semiconductor chip segments as well. To that end, the Indian government is encouraging Samsung to invest in the country's AI and chip industries.
Indian government wants Samsung to invest in AI and semiconductor sectors in the country
Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Minister of State, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in India, met (via FoneArena) with the top brass of Samsung Electronics to discuss India's rapidly growing AI and semiconductor segments. On behalf of Samsung Electronics, the meeting was attended by Mr. JB Park (President & CEO of Samsung Southwest Asia), Hyun Kim (VP & Chief Relations Officer of Samsung), and Mr. Rajiv Aggarwal (VP of Public Affairs of Samsung). These officials discussed India Semiconductor Mission, the Indian governement's initiative that is trying to establish a robust display and semiconductor chip ecosystem in India.
The Indian minister encouraged Samsung Electronics to invest in the country in segments such as AI, IT hardware (laptops, tablets, and smartphones) manufacturing, and semiconductor chip research and development. As Samsung is already a force to reckon with in the Indian market when it comes to phones, TVs, and other consumer electronics, it can significantly contribute to India's growth sectors. Samsung's biggest smartphone factory is situated in Noida in India, and phones that are made there are sold in India as well as exported to other countries. The company also plans to make OLED panels and laptops at the same plant.
Recently, Rajeev Chandrasekhar revealed that the the government is working on the India AI programme, which is poised for cabinet approval soon. It promotes the development and use of AI by Indian startups to address various challenges. It is expected to launch on December 11, 2023, and will be the start of a three-day event where industry executives will come together to discuss the way forward.
