The ZVEI and VDE associations are campaigning for Germany and Europe to increase capacities for the production of microelectronic chips. They stated this at the Microelectronics for future 2022 Summit in Berlin at the beginning of November.
The EU Chips Act, which the EU Commission presented at the end of 2021, plays a special role in this. The associations attach great importance to the EU Chips Act, as the European microelectronics industry ultimately supplies the downstream user industries in the supply chain. However, according to ZVEI President Dr. Gunther Kegel, additional funds must be made available for the projects of the EU Chips Act. The aim must be to substantially expand research, development and production through an active location policy and promotion of industrialization. This also includes interpreting the concept of the EU Chips Act broadly so as not to ignore the needs of key European industries.
With well over 50% of Europe's microelectronics production, Germany plays a leading role. VDE President Dr. Armin Schnettler emphasized that locational disadvantages in the areas of settlement and operating costs, competition law and taxation must be reduced.
Special attention is also being paid to the issue of young talent. The VDE estimates that over 19,000 new electrical engineers are needed every year. Schnettler points out that instead, the number of first-year students fell by a good 4% last year. He therefore believes that the younger generation needs to be better informed that careers in electrical engineering and information technology have a lot to offer. These are not just secure, well-paid jobs with a future. Rather, there is a need to play an active role in ensuring that this world remains a world worth living in.
