With the continued globalization of the microelectronics industry, and localization of manufacturing capabilities within growing electronic markets, the South American market presents new opportunities for both electronics manufacturing and supply chain companies.

Investors and analysts, equipment and materials suppliers, researchers, IC developers, and others ready to explore emerging opportunities in South America should attend. The unique delegation-style summit will provide an exceptional opportunity to meet face-to-face with representatives and executives from local companies, government officials, industry experts, economic development specialists, and analysts.

Device manufacturers, including Unitec Blue in Argentina, and Unitec Semiconductor and CEITEC in Brazil, are making new investments in front- and back-end manufacturing. In 2012, Unitec Semiconductor S.A. announced an investment of US$400 million to build the most modern semiconductor factory in the Southern Hemisphere. Located in Ribeirao Neves, the facility produces customized chips used in industrial and medical applications.

Other leaders in the Latin American semiconductor industry include CEITEC S.A., which has operated a design center and a foundry since 2012, and HT Micron, a joint-venture between South Korean Hana Micron and Brazilian Parit Participações.

In addition, the Brazilian Government recently created a tax incentive program, called PADIS, to provide fiscal incentives for companies that pledge to invest in R&D and in the national development of the sector in the country.

“SEMI is pleased to organize this pioneering event to help build the successful growth of the South America semiconductor industry," said Karen Savala, president of SEMI Americas. "SEMI is helping our members explore new opportunities with the latest information from corporate stakeholders and government officials. This event brings together global and regional industry leaders ─ fostering the connections and relationships that lead to business and market growth."

The conference will provide overviews of the current industry environment in South America, address the challenges and opportunities for supply chain companies in the region, and explore the next steps in building the region's microelectronics industry infrastructure. Panel discussions include: Smart Cards and Banking Technologies, Life Science Technologies, Smart Cities, and Challenges and Next Steps.