Big steps needed to create basic infra for semiconductor manufacturing; difficult to compete with neighbouring nations: NXP

Chipmaker NXP Semiconductors said that India needs to take some big steps to create the basic infrastructure for semiconductor manufacturing in the country. In an interaction with ET’s Danish Khan, Sanjay Gupta, Vice President and India Country Manager said that it is difficult for India to compete with neighbouring countries which, due to better cost-efficiency and first mover advantage, have become the favoured destinations for global chip manufacturers.

The company, however, is bullish on 5G development in India and is planning to significantly increase its resource strength. Edited excerpts

What are the challenges India has for semiconductor manufacturing?