SAPPORO, Japan — Less than six months out from the start of a cutting-edge semiconductor prototype line at chipmaker Rapidus’ new Hokkaido plant, the local economic benefit — which may exceed 18 trillion yen ($120 billion) — is starting to be felt, though hurdles to the goal of mass production remain.
The factory construction site is located near New Chitose Airport, the northernmost main Japanese island’s prim airport and gateway to its biggest city, Sapporo.
