KLA finalizes the first phase of its operations expansion in Singapore

This Phase 1 building of the new facility is part of a $200 million investment by KLA to grow its presence in Singapore, which currently serves as a key manufacturing and engineering hub for the company.

Encompassing about 200,000 square feet, the new building has been designed strategically to address the increasing demand for process control solutions developed with the most stringent requirements for vibration control and cleanroom protocol. It features a 46,000-square-foot Class 100 cleanroom and a 12,000-square-foot Class 10K cleanroom.

With Phase 1 complete, KLA will soon begin work on a second phase to expand the facility, which is projected to be completed by 2026. The Phase 2 structure will add more critical space, bringing the total facility capacity to 420,000 square feet, further expanding cleanroom space as well as KLA’s local research and development (R&D) facilities. In addition to expanding its production capabilities, when finished the new site is also expected to add an estimated 400 new employees to KLA’s local workforce.

“From KLA’s first foray in Singapore close to 30 years ago, we have grown in step with the maturing of Singapore’s semiconductor manufacturing industry and talent base. We’ve steadily expanded our operations here over the years to serve both regional and global customers. This new facility is a testament to the strategic importance of Singapore and the remarkable growth of our business in the region, further strengthening our manufacturing and innovation capabilities,” said Theo Kneepkens, KLA Singapore Country President and KLA Senior Vice President of Global Operations.

The announcement comes at a crucial time as Singapore focuses on building its presence as a leading manufacturing hub globally, with the goal of expanding the value-add of its manufacturing sector by 50 percent by 2030. With the increasing global demand for semiconductors, Singapore continues investing in infrastructure to support the semiconductor ecosystem and supply chain.

“KLA is a valued partner in the growth of Singapore’s semiconductor equipment industry. Its latest manufacturing facility will contribute to the development of new semiconductor capabilities in Singapore, and offer exciting roles and career pathways to Singaporeans. KLA’s expansion here is testament to the competitiveness of Singapore’s semiconductor ecosystem and will strengthen our position as a critical global node for semiconductor equipment to meet growing global demands,” Chang Chin Nam, Senior Vice President and Head of Semiconductors, EDB.

In addition to boosting the regional manufacturing capabilities, this investment also underscores KLA’s commitment to developing and nurturing local highly skilled technical talent in line with the government’s plans to establish Singapore as an innovation and manufacturing hub. As of 2023, 15,000 training sessions have been conducted, including training programs to hone the niche skills needed for the industry.