This report examines the prospects for strengthening US-Mexico semiconductor supply chains amid a global industry rebalancing and delivers policy recommendations to accelerate the development of an integrated regional semiconductor ecosystem.  

The US and Mexico are prioritizing cooperation on semiconductor supply chains in response to rising US-China tensions, COVID-19 pandemic-induced bottlenecks and the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The US CHIPS Act, a paradigm-shifting bill featuring $52.7 billion in semiconductor subsidies and incentives, is intended to increase competitiveness and improve resilience by supporting domestic fabrication and research and design development. The legislation presents a generational opportunity for Mexico to expand its industry footprint by establishing the country as a viable alternative to China and supplementing key US partners in coproduction. Mexico is well positioned to attract investment in assembly, test, and packaging (ATP) but must act unilaterally and in partnership with the US to address key barriers including cost competitiveness, data availability, workforce readiness, and overarching investment climate concerns.  

This report should be read in tandem with the Milken Institute’s summary of conclusions and recommended actions for the North America Semiconductor Conference – a key commitment from the January 2023 North American Leaders’ Summit that convened industry, government, and academic representatives to identify opportunities to increase the competitiveness of regional semiconductor manufacturing and enhance semiconductor supply chain resilience.