On May 13, 2025, the Czech Investment Forum took place at the iconic Fantova budova in Prague, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and academic experts to discuss the past, present, and future of the semiconductor industry in Czechia and its position within the global value chain.

Supply Chain Resilience Center (SCRC) was represented by Prof. RNDr. Jiří Blažek, Ph.D., Head of the Department of Social Geography and Regional Development at Charles University. In his expert address, Prof. Blažek explored the geopolitical dimensions of semiconductor supply chains, emphasizing systemic vulnerabilities and the strategic implications of recent global disruptions. He subsequently participated in a high-level panel discussion focused on Europe’s positioning in the global semiconductor landscape and the potential impact of the EU Chips Act on Czech industrial policy.

One of the Forum’s keynote speakers was Prof. Dr. Konrad Young, an internationally recognized authority in semiconductor research and development. Prof. Young, currently an Adjunct Professor at National Taiwan University and former R&D Director at TSMC, shared his insights on the future of semiconductor technologies. His keynote focused on emerging trends in chip design and manufacturing, the role of new materials, and strategies for enhancing innovation ecosystems through collaboration between academia, industry, and government. He also addressed the critical importance of building resilient and agile R&D frameworks in an increasingly competitive and geopolitically sensitive industry.

SCRC is pleased to have contributed to this high-level dialogue, which highlighted both the systemic challenges and strategic opportunities facing Czechia as it seeks to deepen its engagement in the global semiconductor value chain.