Portugal is taking significant steps in the microelectronics and semiconductor industry with the implementation of the Microelectronics Agenda, an ambitious project that aims to position the country at the forefront of this strategic industry. The project is formed by a consortium of 17 members, from businesses to R&D entities, led by Amkor Technology Portugal, and it is dedicated to development and innovation in four major areas: advanced packaging, high-speed access networks, industrialization of products based on integrated optical circuits, and factories of the future, including training of human resources.
The Microelectronics Agenda aims to promote the Portuguese productive capabilities and competitiveness, contributing to meet the demands at the European and global levels. Also, it aims to promote training and specialization of human resources, having resulted in 25 new Products, Processes and Services (PPS).
The strategy of the Agenda is not circumscribed to technological innovation only, as it also encompasses the subject of ecological transition. Recycling e-waste is one of the critical issues at hand, since there is the urgent need of sustainable solutions for the global problem of e-waste, which is exported in many cases to developing countries. Advanced e-waste managing processes, such as hybrid leaching of precious metals and selective metal recovery methods, are being developed to mitigate the environmental impact and maximize the recovery of valuable materials.
Among the expected results, the Microelectronics Agenda aims to create new sensors and advanced components for various applications. For example, the creation of next generation MEMS sensors will be essential for 5G smartphones and IoT devices, enabling significant improvements in accuracy and energy efficiency. Furthermore, advanced power modules will be key to improve performance and reduce energy consumption in electronic equipment. This innovation also applies to photonic integrated circuits, which are crucial for high-speed optical communications, as they will enable a faster and more efficient data transmission. Another significant advancement consists in visual inspection solutions based on AI, which will improve automation and accuracy in system inspection in semiconductor factories, thus reducing defects and increasing productivity.
The creation of the Microelectronics Observatory offer a comprehensive overview of the sector, identifying entities, companies and Research and Technology Organizations (RTOs), in addition to detailing available skills. This up-to-date information is helpful to inform investment decisions and to identify potential partnerships.
AIDA CCI – Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the Aveiro District, a consortium member, has been attending some of the main international fairs of the industry, where it always takes the opportunity to present and promote the consortium's products, processes and technologies.
Created under the mobilizing agendas of the Portuguese Recovery and Resilience Plan, the Microelectronics Agenda has total eligible funding of €67 493 749,13 by the Recovery and Resilience Plan, through NextGenerationEU. The project runs until june 30, 2026.