As the global technology landscape evolves, the strategic importance of chip manufacturing has become increasingly clear, especially for developing countries like the Philippines. To ensure long-term survival and economic resilience, these nations should consider establishing the capability to fabricate chips, particularly RISC-V chips. This journey could begin by attracting the manufacturing of single-board computers (SBCs) and microcontrollers, which are foundational to modern industrial automation and consumer electronics.

Why Start with SBCs and Microcontrollers?

Single-board computers and microcontrollers are the building blocks of a rapidly growing industry centered around CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines. These machines, whether desktop-sized or much larger, are used in various sectors for milling, routing, cutting, shaping, material handling, packaging, and processing. They empower smaller producers to create sophisticated tools and appliances, laying the groundwork for a burgeoning cottage industry.

In the Philippines, where 91% of the 48 million working population is engaged in non-professional and non-managerial roles (PSA June 2024), the demand for automation tools is set to rise. As these workers increasingly utilize automation, the local production of SBCs and microcontrollers will be crucial to support this technological shift. This vertical integration of RISC-V foundries could eventually make economic sense, paving the way for a future where the Philippines can produce its chips.

The Strategic Imperative for Developing Countries to Manufacture RISC-V Chips

The current global appetite for SBCs and microcontrollers is immense, driven by the widespread adoption of CNC machines in various industries. From ready-to-eat meals replacing fast food to agricultural automation, these technologies offer countless opportunities for value addition and increased productivity. For developing countries, this presents an opportunity to grow their manufacturing capabilities, starting with SBCs and microcontrollers and eventually progressing to full-fledged chip fabrication.

Key RISC-V Startups to Watch

For countries interested in establishing RISC-V manufacturing, here are some of the leading startups in this space:

• SiFive: https://www.sifive.com
• Rivos: https://www.rivosinc.com
• Ventana Micro Systems: https://www.ventanamicro.com
• Codasip: https://www.codasip.com
• Akeana: (No publicly available website)
• Ahead Computing: https://www.ahead.com

These companies are pioneering the development of RISC-V processors and could serve as key partners or models for developing countries looking to enter the chip manufacturing industry.

Conclusion

For the Philippines and other developing nations, attracting the manufacturing of SBCs and microcontrollers is not just a tactical move but a strategic necessity. With 90% of the workforce likely to adopt automation tools in the coming years, building local capacity in this area will be critical. By partnering with leading RISC-V startups and investing in chip fabrication infrastructure, these countries can position themselves for future success in the global tech economy.