Israel's government and Intel Corp announced on Tuesday that they have agreed to approve a staggering $3.2 billion grant to construct Intel's planned $25 billion chip plant in southern Israel.
As the nation remains embroiled in conflict with the Palestinian militant group Hamas following the Oct. 7 attack, this development signals a determination to forge ahead amidst challenging times.
Strengthening the Global Supply Chain
Reuters reported that Intel's expansion plan at the Kiryat Gat site is a strategic move to create a more resilient global supply chain. The company emphasized that this initiative is complemented by ongoing and planned investments in manufacturing across Europe and the United States, as per The Economic Times.
Amidst the financial support of the grant, the chipmaker has pledged to procure goods and services worth 60 billion shekels ($16.6 billion) from Israeli suppliers over the next ten years. This commitment demonstrates Intel's dedication to supporting local businesses while cultivating job creation opportunities.
Intel's Strong Presence in Israel
With four development and production sites in Israel, including one in Kiryat Gat, Intel is a significant employer in the country, employing nearly 12,000 individuals.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu first announced Intel's plan for the chip plant in June, with the company withholding official confirmation until now. However, Intel's statement reveals that construction is underway, with progress made on essential structures such as clean rooms and support buildings.
The completion of the new Intel chip plant is scheduled for 2027, and it is set to operate through 2035. This technological milestone marks an all-important investment in Israel's future and affirms the nation's commitment to advancing semiconductor innovation.
Israel demonstrates resilience and determination in times of adversity by fostering collaborations with global technology giants such as Intel. Through this partnership, the country aims to strengthen its position in the competitive semiconductor industry and reinforce its standing as a leading technological hub.
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