Three sci-tech innovation incubation platforms are unveiled at the fourth session of the China Rugao Third-generation Semiconductor and Equipment Forum in Rugao, Nantong on Oct 27. [Photo/WeChat account: rugaofabu]

Rugao should make clear its development path in the third-generation semiconductor sector, attach equal importance to R&D and production and further extend the industrial chain to enhance its core competitiveness in the field, experts said at the fourth session of the China Rugao Third-generation Semiconductor and Equipment Forum, which opened in Rugao, Nantong on Oct 27.

With the slogan "new opportunities for chips development", the forum mainly discussed shortages in the domestic industrial chain, specifically in crystalline materials and equipment, with experts sharing their views in person or through video.

Rugao boasts strong potential for developing its semiconductor industry, said He Yijun, the city's Party secretary, at the opening ceremony.

He said that the local government has attached great importance to the development of the semiconductor industry by carrying out supporting policies to attract upstream and downstream enterprises and research institutions.

A comprehensive industrial chain involving semiconductor materials, equipment, manufacturing, sealing and testing, as well as industrial applications, has been formed.

Experts suggested that Rugao strengthen its cooperation with top research institutions to achieve more technical breakthroughs and break the foreign monopoly in high-end materials, equipment and key components.

To this end, three sci-tech innovation incubation platforms were unveiled at the opening ceremony and 12 industrial projects and talent programs were signed.

Officials said that Rugao aims to become the core area of the third-generation semiconductor industry in Nantong and to build an industrial cluster worth 10 billion yuan ($1.56 billion) by the end of the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25) period.