Vietnam Wafer Proposes US$3.84 Million Expansion for High-Purity Quartz Production in Vietnam

Vietnam Wafer JSC has proposed developing a second-phase manufacturing project for ultra-high-purity quartz crucibles and bowls in Quang Tri province, central Vietnam, with an estimated investment of approximately VND100 billion (US$3.84 million).

The proposed project would expand Vietnam Wafer’s production chain for high-purity quartz materials and form the second phase of its broader semiconductor materials production complex in Quang Tri. The proposal comes as the company begins construction of its first-phase ultra-high-purity quartz materials plant, which represents an initial investment of more than VND96 billion (US$3.68 million).

Quang Tri provincial authorities recently held discussions with Vietnam Wafer JSC and Japan-based Kanematsu Corporation regarding the proposed project, as well as broader plans to attract investment in high-tech materials and strengthen the province’s industrial development.

The second-phase project is planned for Quang Nang Industrial Park and the Southeast Quang Tri Economic Zone, covering approximately 1.5 hectares. With an estimated investment of around VND100 billion, the proposed facility would manufacture ultra-high-purity quartz crucibles and bowls for applications in the production of crystalline silicon ingots, serving both the semiconductor and photovoltaic industries, as well as the production of high-end optical lenses.

The proposed facility would expand Vietnam Wafer’s presence further along the high-purity quartz materials value chain, moving beyond raw material production toward more advanced downstream products used in semiconductor and solar manufacturing.

During discussions with provincial authorities, the parties also reviewed key requirements related to raw material supply, production technology, technical infrastructure and environmental protection, as well as other conditions required for implementation of the project.

Le Duc Tien, Vice Chairman of the Quang Tri People's Committee, welcomed Vietnam Wafer’s investment plans and said that high-tech materials projects were aligned with the province’s development priorities in science and technology, innovation and digital transformation.

According to provincial authorities, projects of this type could help Quang Tri make better use of its existing resource advantages while gradually developing downstream processing industries and establishing a stronger semiconductor materials industry in the province.

The provincial government has asked Vietnam Wafer to complete the required documentation and submit formal proposals covering raw materials, technology, environmental considerations and the project implementation roadmap. Relevant government agencies will subsequently review the proposals and provide guidance and support in accordance with applicable regulations.

The proposed second phase comes as Vietnam Wafer begins construction of its first-phase ultra-high-purity quartz materials plant at Quang Ngang Industrial Park in Gio Linh commune.

The first-phase facility will cover approximately 9,500 square metres and have a designed annual production capacity of 1,500 tonnes. With an initial investment of more than VND96 billion, the plant will produce ultra-high-purity quartz sand for applications across the semiconductor, optical and photovoltaic industries.

The first-phase facility is expected to be completed and begin operations in the third quarter of 2026, establishing the initial production base for Vietnam Wafer’s planned expansion in high-purity quartz materials.

Vietnam Wafer JSC was established in April 2024 and is headquartered in Ho Chi Minh City. The company is positioned as a Vietnamese producer of silicon wafers and ultra-high-purity quartz materials serving the semiconductor and solar energy industries.

The company’s proposed expansion comes amid growing efforts in Vietnam to develop higher-value industrial supply chains and attract investment into advanced manufacturing and semiconductor-related materials.

Japan’s Kanematsu Corporation is also involved in discussions surrounding the project. Founded in 1889 and headquartered in Tokyo, Kanematsu operates across multiple business areas, including steel and materials, plants, electronics and equipment, motor vehicles, aerospace, and food and grain.

Kanematsu established representative offices in Ho Chi Minh City, Hai Phong and Hanoi in 1991. In 2014, it established Kanematsu Vietnam Co Ltd through its Ho Chi Minh City representative office, further expanding its activities in the Vietnamese market.

The proposed Vietnam Wafer project could therefore contribute to the development of a more integrated high-purity quartz and semiconductor materials supply chain in Vietnam, while providing additional support for the country's growing photovoltaic and semiconductor manufacturing industries.