UK & Canada sign deal to boost semiconductor innovation

TechWorks and the Canadian Semiconductor Council have formalised a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen cooperation and innovation between the UK and Canadian semiconductor sectors.

This agreement aims to build on the complementary strengths of both countries in areas such as advanced packaging, compound semiconductors, quantum technologies, artificial intelligence, neuromorphic processors, and sustainable materials. While much of the high-volume digital CMOS production has migrated to other regions, the UK and Canada remain highly active in advancing emerging semiconductor technologies, which are seen as essential to long-term economic development and global competitiveness.

The signing of this Memorandum of Understanding comes alongside a bilateral meeting between Sir Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, and Mark Carney, Prime Minister of Canada, where both leaders reiterated their countries' commitment to enhancing economic ties, particularly in semiconductors, photonics, emerging materials, and chip design.

The agreed framework outlines a structured approach for ongoing collaboration. Key aims include sharing market intelligence and technology roadmaps, fostering business-to-business partnerships and trade missions, developing the skilled workforce required for the sector, and supporting academic collaboration. A further intention is to initiate bilateral research and development projects, including participation in international innovation programmes.

This partnership represents a significant milestone for our respective semiconductor industries. By connecting two innovation-rich ecosystems, we are opening the door to deeper collaboration in R&D, talent development, and commercial opportunity. Through shared strengths and common mind-set, we can help build resilient supply chains and accelerate the technologies that will define the next decade.

Both governments have also launched a jointly funded research and development programme through Innovate UK and the National Research Council Industrial Research Assistance Program in Canada. This programme targets collaborative work on advanced packaging, photonics, and new materials, aiming to foster robust supply chains and technological innovation. The initiative invites Canadian and UK organisations to propose projects involving innovative products, new processes, or technology-based services.

The agreement is considered a natural progression for the two countries, reflecting deeper cooperation in light of shifting global trade patterns. Paul Slaby, Managing Director of the Canadian Semiconductor Council, emphasised the historical relationship between the two countries and the timeliness of the new accord:

Canada and the UK have long shared a rich history of collaboration, and this agreement is a natural next step in addressing the growing need for deeper cooperation in the semiconductor sector - especially as global trade dynamics continue to shift rapidly. By strengthening ties and leveraging our mutual strengths, we can create new opportunities and lasting impact for both nations.

The Science Minister for the UK, Lord Vallance, commented on the broader significance of the agreement:

This new partnership reflects the UK and Canada's shared commitment to strengthening semiconductor supply chains and deepening international cooperation in critical technologies. It will help create new opportunities for businesses and researchers and support our Plan for Change through long-term economic growth.

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, echoed these themes:

Canada and the United Kingdom's partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to advancing innovation and building economic resilience. We are strengthening our leadership in innovation, reinforcing secure supply chains, and creating new opportunities for businesses and researchers on both sides of the Atlantic.

Through these collaborative efforts, both nations aim to boost trade, increase foreign direct investment, and drive innovation across the entire semiconductor and microelectronics ecosystem, from design and manufacturing to usage in artificial intelligence, communications, and the Internet of Things. TechWorks and the Canadian Semiconductor Council have expressed interest in engaging stakeholders from industry, academia, and government to participate in shaping the direction of bilateral semiconductor innovation.