JETRO has signed a memorandum of understanding with Arizona State University (ASU), the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), and the Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC) to strengthen collaboration in semiconductor research, development, and workforce training between Japan and Arizona.

The agreement was signed on March 4 during a reception held as part of an inspection program hosted by the Consulate General of Japan in Los Angeles. The partnership reflects deepening economic ties between Japan and Arizona, where Japanese companies have become increasingly active in recent years.

Arizona has emerged as a major semiconductor hub in the United States, particularly in advanced packaging, where industry, government, and academia are working together to expand both research and manufacturing capacity. Japan, meanwhile, remains highly competitive in semiconductor materials and manufacturing equipment, while regional semiconductor ecosystems continue to grow across the country.

Through this partnership, the four organizations aim to support joint programs in technology exchange, human resource development, and workforce training, while also involving Japanese companies, universities, and local governments in future initiatives.