MUSCAT: Marking a new chapter in the growth of a fledgling semiconductor sector in the Sultanate of Oman, a local company aiding this drive has announced the rollout of new project initiatives based on the successful testing of Oman-1 and Oman-2 chips – the first-ever indigenously designed integrated chips (IC).
In all, nine new initiatives have been unveiled to build on the landmark success of the Oman-1 and Oman-2 chips, which were shipped back recently after more than six months of testing and validation at a prominent international lab.
GSME Oman, the local affiliate of GS Micro Electronics, a global leader in semiconductor and microelectronics innovation, has been working alongside Omani government stakeholders to help ignite the growth of a nascent semiconductor sector in the country.
“Embarking on a groundbreaking journey as chip testing kicks off for 9 innovative projects in Oman-1 and Oman-2 chips! 6 blocks tested with 100% success, this achievement is a great sign of hope and pride that the local talent is par with international standards in chip design. This achievement marks a significant milestone in Oman’s semiconductor journey,” said GSME Oman in a post.
The announcement comes just days after the company revealed the arrival back in Oman of the two breakthrough chips – designed by an all-Omani team – following successful testing at a prominent Taiwanese lab.
“These chips are proudly designed by Omani engineers, were sent for manufacturing last year and are now back. Initial testing has indicated that chips are alive, more testing results will be shared as soon as available,” GSME Oman stated.
“Oman-1 and Oman-2 embody innovation and promise for our future. Notably, this achievement showcases Oman's commitment to technological advancement in the semiconductor industry, aligning with the vision set forth in Oman Vision 2040,” the company further noted.
The broader initiative to jumpstart the growth of a semiconductor industry in Oman is being spearheading by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology in conjunction with the Ministry of Labour. The initiative represents one of the early successes of the National Programme for the Digital Economy.
In 2022, a GSME affiliate signed an agreement with the Ministry of Labour, as well as the Ministry of Transport, to support the establishment of Oman’s first project centring on the design and manufacture of semiconductors. That yearlong effort, while paying off with the launch of Oman’s first locally designed chips, is also paving the ground for the country’s eventual break into the global semiconductor manufacturing industry, currently worth an estimated $600 billion.
GSME Oman has also invested in a state-of-the-art lab facility in Muscat to help drive the growth of Omani talent in this lucrative global industry. The 2,200 sq feet facility has been equipped with high-tech systems to test and verify Integrated Circuits designed by the company.
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