Intel expands Vietnam operations as it relocates chip assembly from Costa Rica
Intel Corporation plans to relocate its chip assembly, packaging and testing operations from Costa Rica to Vietnam, signaling a major step in its global manufacturing strategy and reaffirming Vietnam’s growing importance in the semiconductor supply chain.
THE HANOI TIMES — Intel will relocate its chip assembly, packaging and testing operations from Costa Rica to Vietnam, according to Kenneth Tse, General Manager of Intel Products Vietnam (IPV), said during a meeting with Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Nguyen Van Duoc on October 24 at the Saigon Hi-tech Park (SHTP).
Intel Products Vietnam's chip assembly and manufacturing facility. Photo courtesy by the company
The move is part of Intel’s global production restructuring to enhance efficiency and competitiveness. Tse said the company is seeking local support to obtain operational permits and ensure safe air transport of new machinery to the SHTP facility.
Earlier this month, Intel began recruiting more production technicians in Vietnam through 2025 to prepare for the expansion.
Intel’s Ho Chi Minh City plant is the corporation’s largest assembly and testing facility worldwide, accounting for over 50% of its total output and employing more than 6,000 workers. The site currently handles production of Intel’s next-generation 18A chips.
Over its 20 years of operation, IPV has exported more than four billion products, contributing over US$100 billion to Vietnam’s exports as of the second quarter of 2025.
Tse reaffirmed Intel Vietnam’s commitment to collaborating with the city in training high-quality human resources in artificial intelligence (AI), fostering innovation, and exploring renewable energy investment opportunities.
Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Nguyen Van Duoc said the city is entering a new stage of attracting high-quality investment, particularly in technology and advanced management from global corporations such as Intel.
He pledged that the city would continue to support Intel’s operations, contributing to sustainable growth, digital economy advancement and the strengthening of Vietnam’s position in global technology value chains.
Earlier this month, Intel signed an MoU with the Saigon Hi-tech Park to provide semiconductor training equipment, part of efforts to strengthen Vietnam’s talent base in the field.
