The Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences (HSZG), together with the German Economic Council, the Görlitz District, and partners such as the Technical University of Liberec, Silicon Saxony, and other stakeholders, successfully hosted the 2025 International Economic Conference on the semiconductor industry. Approximately 200 experts and executives from the fields of politics, business, and academia in Taiwan, Japan, the Czech Republic, and Germany used the conference to discuss current developments and future opportunities for cooperation in one of the key sectors of the digital transformation.

The conference was launched, among other things, on the initiative of District Administrator Dr. Stephan Meyer, who has been committed to strengthening the semiconductor industry in the region and fostering international exchange ever since the announcement of TSMC’s establishment in Dresden.

The focus was on the challenges and opportunities of more sustainable and competitive semiconductor production, as well as the establishment of cross-border networks. In addition, the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences presented two new bachelor’s degree programs that were developed in close collaboration with industry and are specifically designed to address the growing demand for skilled workers in the semiconductor sector. Starting in the fall of 2026, “Mechatronics for Manufacturing” (in cooperation with the Technical University of Liberec) and “Semiconductor Processes and Materials Chemistry” are set to begin at the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences.

More than 50 companies from the semiconductor industry and related technology sectors were represented at the conference, including numerous global players and regional innovation leaders.

Participants from Germany included Infineon Technologies Dresden GmbH & Co. KG, Advanced Mask Technology Center Dresden, Celes Group, digades GmbH, Fujikin Deutschland, and 3D-Micromac AG. The European Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (ESMC) was represented by its president, Dr. Christian Koitzsch, who emphasized the importance of international partnerships for technological innovation.

Leading companies from the Czech Republic, such as CUBE CZ s.r.o., Crytur, spol. s r.o., and UCT Fluid Delivery Solutions s.r.o., were also present and expressed great interest in deepening their collaboration with German and international partners. Representatives from Japanese companies such as Mitsubishi Chemical Europe GmbH, Nuflare Technology Inc., Techno Horizon Co., Ltd., and Kyocera Fine Ceramics participated virtually in the conference and underscored the importance of cross-border and cross-continental exchange.

For Dr. Stephan Meyer, District Administrator of the Görlitz District, one thing is certain: “Our region already offers significant locational advantages—from dedicated skilled workers and innovative companies to a strong research landscape. Located in the heart of the tri-border region, the International Economic Conference demonstrates how we can further expand this potential together with international partners and local small and medium-sized enterprises, thereby positioning the Görlitz district as a key region in the semiconductor industry.”

Dr. Christian Koitzsch, President of ESMC, explained: “By establishing ESMC in Dresden, we are creating new jobs and expanding the foundation for a strong supplier industry in Silicon Saxony—from which Upper Lusatia can also benefit significantly. We look forward to close collaboration with Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences: The development of new, practice-oriented degree programs will incorporate not only the latest research findings but also the requirements of the semiconductor industry as a whole. In this way, we will attract motivated young talent to an industry with a bright future.”

The conference provided not only a platform for technological exchange but also for initiating concrete projects, investments, and research collaborations. Particular emphasis was placed on securing a skilled workforce and fostering young talent in order to establish Upper Lusatia as a strong long-term hub for education, research, and production in the semiconductor sector. The high level of international interest underscores the region’s potential to position itself as a major hub of the global semiconductor industry. An informal get-together rounded out the event and provided an opportunity to strengthen existing contacts and initiate new collaborations.