Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry confirmed on April 17 that Sony will receive 60 billion yen (~$380 million) in government subsidies. The funds are earmarked for a new image sensor factory in Kumamoto, western Japan.

Industry Minister Ryosei Akazawa stated that image sensors are critical for autonomous driving and ensuring stable supply is a national priority. Sony, the global leader in smartphone image sensors, continues to strengthen its core competitiveness across gaming, film, music, and anime as well. The new fab will expand capacity to meet growing market demand.

ICgoodFind : Japan’s subsidy reinforces Sony’s imaging leadership. ICgoodFind tracks key semiconductor and sensor supply chains to support your sourcing needs.