Canon intends to introduce lithography technology and specialized service centers in India as semiconductor manufacturing ventures progress, signaling a possible growth of the equipment and technical support framework essential for the nation’s chip aspirations.

Toshiaki Nomura, Canon India's President and CEO, stated that the Japanese imaging and optical technology firm has engaged in discussions about its technology with major semiconductor manufacturers whose initiatives are currently being developed in India. Canon provides lithography equipment utilized in semiconductor production.

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“India has been actively promoting semiconductor manufacturing through incentive schemes and has approved multiple projects across semiconductor fabrication, assembly, testing, marking and packaging,” according to Nomura. “We bring our technologies to help assist the chip manufacturer to produce chips in India. So that’s a great opportunity for us.”

The company’s suggested role would go further than just providing equipment. Nomura mentioned that Canon might set up specific service centers in India after customer projects are verified. Equipment for semiconductor production demands ongoing technical assistance, and he mentioned that Canon must offer around-the-clock support to chip producers using the systems.

“Once the project is confirmed, of course we need 24×7 support from the chip manufacturer. In that sense, we will bring our technologies and service centers to India. That’s our plan,” he says.

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Canon has already participated in significant semiconductor projects within the country, but Nomura did not specify particular companies or offer a timeline for separate agreements. He mentioned that information would be provided once updates were verified. The company’s participation is still in the discussion and planning phase instead of indicating a finalized equipment agreement or operational site.

The proposed support infrastructure aligns with India’s efforts to establish a local semiconductor ecosystem through government-backed incentives and authorized investments. Almost 12 initiatives have been sanctioned under the India Semiconductor Mission, encompassing chip manufacturing along with assembly, testing, marking, and packaging.

Projects highlighted in the report include Tata Electronics’ semiconductor fabrication facility in Dholera, Gujarat; Micron’s assembly and packaging plant in Sanand; collaborations between CG Power-Renesas and Kaynes Semicon in Gujarat; and Tata Electronics’ semiconductor packaging site in Assam. These facilities are being created throughout various segments of the manufacturing chain, generating demand for not just factories but also for specialized machinery, maintenance, and technical skills.

Nomura stated that Canon was assured of India's capability to build the necessary ecosystem, though he remarked that the timelines for projects rested with specific chip manufacturers.

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“Governments and related parties are working very hard to build up this ecosystem. In the near future, this ecosystem will be available,” he says.

Canon has been broadening its scope beyond traditional imaging and printing sectors into semiconductor technology, medical equipment, and surveillance and security services. India ranks as one of the company’s key markets worldwide, with Nomura noting that its activities in the nation have shown consistent double-digit growth.

The company’s cameras, printers, multifunction devices, and production equipment remain central to its operations in India. Canon's subsequent actions will hinge on the validation and advancement of semiconductor initiatives and the consequent need for lithography machinery and continuous technical assistance in India.