Aggressive semiconductor-related investment continues in Kumamoto Prefecture and the surrounding prefectures, with SUMCO, a major silicon wafer manufacturer, expanding its facilities in Imari City, Saga Prefecture, and the Sony Group looking to boost its semiconductor supply capacity in Nagasaki. Also, Rohm Apollo, which is preparing to begin mass production of silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductors, will erect a new building at its Chikugo Plant in Fukuoka Prefecture, which is slated to go into operation this December. In February of this year, Fukuoka Prefecture launched the Green Device Development and Production Base Council to promote technological development aimed at ensuring a quicker and more stable supply chain in light of this semiconductor industry boom. In June, Fukuoka Prefecture also established the Semiconductor and Digital Industry Promotion Council to promote technological development and the creation of new industries.