London’s tech future depends on semiconductor industry investment. On the final day of London Tech Week, attention turned to semiconductors, a critical yet often overlooked component of the tech economy. At the Royal Society’s Semi Impact Forum, key figures from the chip supply chain discussed the UK’s position in a shifting global landscape. Semiconductors have evolved from mere infrastructure to a geopolitical battleground, essential for maintaining the UK’s edge in deeptech and industrial resilience. The government must have a robust plan to secure supply and invest in areas where the UK can excel.
The Forum highlighted a changing global scenario, with discussions on UK–Europe–Taiwan cooperation in the chip supply chain and women in semiconductors. As Taiwan produces 50% of global semiconductors, potential conflicts could significantly impact the UK’s ambitions in AI and advanced manufacturing. Challenges in building UK chip capability include cost and availability, necessitating serious industrial intent from London.
The UK Semiconductor Strategy, launched in 2023, requires swift action to address semiconductor vulnerabilities despite the tech ecosystem’s growth. The UK, with its leadership in R&D and chip design, is well positioned to pioneer compound semiconductors and AI-optimised architectures. London can play a central role in international collaboration, particularly with Taiwan.
Semiconductor sovereignty means ensuring secure access during global supply disruptions. Semiconductors are crucial for the UK’s technological and economic goals, underpinning sectors like AI and defence. The next steps involve scaling fabrication, upskilling talent, and coordinating government, academia, and industry efforts. London has the potential but needs a concerted approach to treat chips as national infrastructure.
Russ Shaw CBE is the founder of Tech London Advocates & Global Tech Advocates.
