Sumitomo Chemical Co. (Tokyo, Japan) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of the shares of Asia Union Electronic Chemical Corporation (AUECC), a Taiwanese semiconductor process chemicals company. The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including obtaining required regulatory approvals. The acquisition of AUECC will enable Sumitomo Chemical to strengthen its global footprint and establish its first manufacturing base for semiconductor process chemicals in Taiwan and a second base in the United States, alongside its Texas site, further accelerating the expansion of its semiconductor process chemicals business worldwide.
The global semiconductor industry is expected to achieve sustained growth, driven by advances in IoT, the rapid proliferation of generative AI, and expanding demand for data centers. As semiconductor devices become more advanced and complex, various process chemicals used for cleaning and drying processes in semiconductor manufacturing require ultra-high purity at the ppt (parts per trillion) level and rigorous quality control.
Anticipating future demand growth for semiconductor process chemicals, Sumitomo Chemical has been advancing capital investments, including establishing a new facility in Texas in 2022, as well as aggressively pursuing strategic acquisitions.
Founded in 1998, AUECC has engaged in the development, manufacturing, and marketing of semiconductor process chemicals. AUECC operates manufacturing sites in Kaohsiung, Taiwan and Nevada, and is renowned for its robust product lineup, advanced quality management systems, and integrated supply solutions, including customized packaging and global logistics. Its reputation as a one-stop solutions provider has earned the trust of top-tier semiconductor manufacturers in both Taiwan and the United States.
Through the integration of AUECC’s extensive sales and procurement networks, diverse product offerings, and flexible packaging capabilities, Sumitomo Chemical will further expand its global supply network and enhance its ability to deliver comprehensive solutions to customers worldwide. By combining the technological strengths of both companies, Sumitomo Chemical Group aims to maximize synergies—such as boosting AUECC’s production efficiency—while delivering even greater value to customers.
Positioning the semiconductor materials business as a core growth driver, Sumitomo Chemical Group is strategically investing resources to expand business in this field. This acquisition underlines its commitment to securing long-term leadership in the semiconductor process chemicals business and achieving the target of doubling FY2024 sales by FY2030.