SAPPORO, Japan — With less than six months to go until chipmaker Rapidus starts an advanced semiconductor prototype line at its new Hokkaido plant, the local economic benefit — which could top 18 trillion yen ($120 billion) — is starting to grow. although obstacles remain to the goal of mass production, it can be felt.
The plant's construction site is located near New Chitose Airport, the main airport on the northernmost island of Japan and the gateway to its largest city, Sapporo.