Karnataka’s UK roadshow gains momentum with SCI Semiconductors’ GCC plan

Karnataka Minister for Large and Medium Industries and Infrastructure MB Patil. (File Photo)

A Karnataka industry delegation led by Industries Minister M B Patil has secured fresh investor interest during its ongoing UK visit, with SCI Semiconductors expressing intent to set up a Global Capability Centre (GCC) in Bengaluru.

The UK-based chip company has conveyed its interest in establishing a GCC in Karnataka, with the State Government assuring full support for the company’s proposed investment.

The potential investment is expected to enable the local manufacture of hardware-secured microprocessors used in computer-security applications, Industries Minister M B Patil said in a release.

Patil, who is on an official visit to the UK, held meetings with senior leadership from SCI Semiconductors, Weir Group, Latos Data Centre, Samco Holdings, and ARM Semiconductors to explore avenues for investment and expansion in the state.

The Minister said ARM Semiconductors’ second-largest global office operates out of Bengaluru as part of the Austin-Bengaluru-California network, and the company is looking to deepen collaboration across its global centres.

ARM is also keen on opening another office in Bengaluru. Discussions highlighted how both Cambridge and Bengaluru have emerged as strong hubs for semiconductor design and R&D, Patil added.

Also, read: India to host 2nm chip design as ARM expands in Bengaluru: Ashwini Vaishnaw

While Samco Holdings has shown interest in renewable energy, ethanol production, and battery manufacturing, Latos Data Centre is exploring the possibility of setting up an artificial intelligence (AI) incubation centre in Bengaluru.

Patil said the delegation briefed the companies on emerging opportunities in these sectors under the upcoming KWIN City project and the potential for data-centre investments connected to renewable energy and infrastructure development.

Also, read: Bengaluru Tech Summit: Karnataka to set up semiconductor park on 200 acres in KWIN City, says MB Patil

Weir Group, which has a presence in mining, minerals and industrial equipment, already runs a manufacturing unit near Bengaluru and is examining further expansion.

The Minister assured that Karnataka would extend support under the State’s new industrial policy.

Also, read: Karnataka minister proposes metro connectivity to KWIN City near Bengaluru