RIYADH: Domestic electronic chip production in Saudi Arabia will receive a boost as Riyadh prepares to host the third Future Semiconductors Forum. Organized by King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology, the two-day event will take place in the Garage Innovation District from June 5-6. It also seeks to strengthen the digital economy within the Kingdom, according to a statement. This is in line with KACST’s strategy to enhance research, development, and innovation system, expediting advancements, and promoting the localization of technologies. According to the president of KACST, Munir El-Desouki, the forum reflects the goals and priorities set by Crown Prince Mohamed bin Salman in the field of research, development, and innovation. It also plays a significant role in advancing the digital economy in the Kingdom, El-Desouki emphasized. This forum is set to gather esteemed policymakers, industrial pioneers, experts, and scholars in semiconductor technology. The president of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Tony Chan, explained that the upcoming edition of the event offers promising prospects to further improve the digital economy and advance research cooperation between various entities. Chan noted that it will also facilitate the exchange of knowledge about best practices in the electronic chip industry by bringing together the most prominent local and international entities. Over the two days, the forum will tackle various topics to outline the semiconductor industry’s future trajectory in the Kingdom by exploring the value chain, from raw materials to finished microchips. It will also examine the application of this cutting-edge technology in areas like space exploration, quantum technologies, and 6G communications, as well as electric vehicles and integrated sensors to enable smart cities. Moreover, the Future Semiconductors Forum 2024 is set to announce significant initiatives that will work to bolster the nation’s standing in the global semiconductor arena, drive transformation in the Middle East as well as cultivate talent in this vital sector and address industry challenges to spur economic growth. The agenda includes multiple scientific activities such as lectures, panel discussions, research posters, and an accompanying exhibition for global companies to showcase the latest semiconductors.