India-Japan Tech Diplomacy- How Can it be Improved?

In July 2023, India and Japan embarked on a collaborative journey targeting the semiconductor ecosystem. This partnership was designed to foster a robust supply chain for critical technological advancements and to spearhead joint endeavours in the realm of semiconductors.

Areas of Focus

Semiconductor Design & Manufacturing

• India and Japan are collaborating on:
  • Advanced chip designs.
  • Manufacturing processes tailored for new-age electronics.

Equipment Research

• Research on the latest semiconductor equipment.
• Exploration of innovative production tools and methodologies.

Resilience in the Semiconductor Supply Chain

• Aims to build a robust supply chain that can withstand global shocks.
• Ensures a constant and unobstructed flow of essential semiconductor products.

Talent Development      

• Emphasis on human resource development.
• Skill exchange programs, workshops, and intensive training sessions.

Policy Alignment

• India’s “Make in India” initiative: Focused on boosting domestic manufacturing and technology.
• Japan’s “Society 5.0” vision: Prioritizes technological self-reliance and growth driven by innovation.
• The partnership underscores:
  • Technology transfers.
  • Bilateral agreements for mutual growth in semiconductor research and related product trades.

Strategic Alliances & Technological Synergy

• Recognizing the importance of semiconductors in:
  • Driving innovation.
  • Economic development.
  • National security considerations.
• Convergence of Japan’s manufacturing prowess and India’s burgeoning IT demand creates a platform for beneficial collaboration.

Addressing Geopolitical Concerns

• Emphasis on diversifying semiconductor supply chains due to disruptions and geopolitical tensions.
• Importance of cross-country collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region.

The American Angle

Previous Partnerships

• India’s alignment with industry leaders is evident in its technology partnership with the U.S.
• Focus areas include investment, innovation, and workforce development.

Educational Collaboration

• An agreement is in the pipeline between New Delhi and Georgia Tech University.

Private Sector Investments

• Investments from companies like Micron Technology and Applied Materials play a pivotal role in India’s semiconductor landscape.

Geostrategic Implications

• U.S.’s CHIPS and Science Act of 2022 strategically curbs semiconductor manufacturing expansion in certain nations, including China.
• Both Japan and the U.S. have signed bilateral agreements with India, emphasizing the strategic alignment of these nations in the Indo-Pacific.
• In January 2023, countries like Japan and the Netherlands followed the U.S. in imposing export controls on semiconductor manufacturing materials to China, signifying global concerns over China’s rapidly expanding chip-making capabilities.

The Quad Perspective

• The collaboration highlights the growing confidence in India by Quad countries.
• Signifies India’s evolving capabilities in semiconductor technologies.
• Envisions a combined force of Japan’s tech superiority and India’s innovation strengths.

Way Forward

The ongoing partnership between India and Japan promises a dynamic future for the semiconductor industry. As technology continually evolves, collaborations will address:

• Semiconductor miniaturization challenges.
• Integration of Artificial Intelligence.
• Delving into quantum computing realms.

Collaborations like these will undoubtedly reshape the global technological landscape, impacting geopolitical partnerships and signaling a new dawn for the Indo-Pacific region.

Conclusion

The collaboration between India and Japan in 2023 marks a transformative phase in the semiconductor industry. By merging their strengths and visions, both nations are paving the path towards a future characterized by advanced electronics, heightened connectivity, and a shared zeal for technological brilliance.

Practice Question for Mains

Discuss the state of India-Japan tech diplomacy. How can it be strengthened going forward? (250 words)