Sumitomo Chemical’s acquisition of AUECC strengthens its semiconductor chemicals footprint in Taiwan and the US, enhancing global supply, technology integration, and growth prospects.
Sumitomo Chemical has announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% of Asia Union Electronic Chemical Corporation (AUECC), a prominent Taiwanese manufacturer specializing in semiconductor process chemicals. The acquisition, which remains contingent on customary closing conditions and regulatory clearances, marks a major strategic step for Sumitomo Chemical as it seeks to broaden its manufacturing and supply footprint in key global semiconductor hubs. Once the deal is completed, Sumitomo Chemical will gain its first production facility for semiconductor process chemicals in Taiwan and an additional manufacturing base in the United States, supplementing its existing site in Texas. This move is expected to accelerate the company’s global expansion and solidify its presence in markets increasingly vital to the semiconductor value chain.
The semiconductor sector is projected to maintain robust growth over the coming years, propelled by rapid advancements in the Internet of Things (IoT), large-scale adoption of generative AI technologies, and sustained investment in high-performance data centers. As chip architectures become more intricate and performance demands increase, the need for highly specialized process chemicals—particularly those used for cleaning and drying semiconductor components—has risen sharply. These chemicals must meet extremely stringent purity standards, often measured at the parts-per-trillion (ppt) level, along with uncompromising quality control protocols.
Sumitomo Chemical has long been recognized as a global leader in semiconductor process chemicals, leveraging decades of technological development and manufacturing expertise. The company has steadily expanded its capabilities to meet the evolving requirements of the semiconductor industry. Its recent investments, including the creation of a new manufacturing facility in Texas in 2022, demonstrate a continued commitment to strengthening supply stability and technological competitiveness. In line with this strategy, the acquisition of AUECC serves as a natural extension of its broader growth roadmap.
Founded in 1998, AUECC has built a strong reputation for its work in developing, producing, and supplying semiconductor process chemicals. With manufacturing operations in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and Nevada, United States, the company has become a trusted partner for leading semiconductor manufacturers across these regions. AUECC’s strengths include a comprehensive product range, sophisticated quality management systems, and the ability to provide integrated solutions such as customized packaging and global logistics support. Its capability to deliver one-stop services has been a key factor in establishing long-term relationships with major industry players.
By bringing AUECC into its group, Sumitomo Chemical plans to enhance and broaden its global supply network. The integration will combine AUECC’s sales channels, procurement strengths, and adaptable packaging systems with Sumitomo Chemical’s deep technological expertise and global manufacturing footprint. This collaboration is expected to amplify operational synergies, improve production efficiency, and elevate the overall value delivered to customers worldwide.
As the semiconductor materials business continues to be positioned as a major driver of future growth, Sumitomo Chemical is channeling substantial resources into expanding its presence in this domain. The acquisition of AUECC underscores the company’s ambition to reinforce its leadership in semiconductor process chemicals and achieve its goal of doubling FY2024 sales by FY2030. Through these efforts, the Sumitomo Chemical Group aims to ensure a consistent supply of high-quality materials to the global semiconductor industry and contribute to the advancement of an increasingly intelligent and interconnected society.
