The Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences (HSZG ), together with the Economic Council of Germany and the district of Görlitz and partners such as the Technical University of Liberec, Silicon Saxony and other stakeholders, organized the International Business Conference 2025 on the semiconductor industry with great success. Around 200 specialists and managers from politics, business and science from Taiwan, Japan, the Czech Republic and Germany used the conference to discuss current developments and future cooperation potential in one of the key sectors of the digital transformation.

The conference was initiated by District Administrator Dr. Stephan Meyer, who has been committed to strengthening the semiconductor industry in the region and promoting international exchange since TSMC's decision to locate in Dresden became known.

The focus was on the challenges and opportunities of more sustainable and competitive semiconductor production and the establishment of cross-border networks. The Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences also presented two new Bachelor's degree courses , which were developed in close cooperation with industry and specifically address the growing demand for skilled workers in the semiconductor sector. From fall 2026, "Mechatronics for Manufacturing" (in cooperation with TU Liberec) and "Semiconductor Processes and Material Chemistry" will start at the HSZG.

Over 50 companies from the semiconductor industry and related technology areas were represented at the conference, including numerous global players and regional innovation leaders.

Participants from Germany included Infineon Technologies Dresden GmbH & Co KG, Advanced Mask Technology Center Dresden, Celes Group, digades GmbH, Fujikin Deutschland and 3D-Micromac AG. The European Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (ESMC) was represented by President Dr. Christian Koitzsch, who emphasized the importance of international partnerships for technological innovation.

Leading companies from the Czech Republic such as CUBE CZ s.r.o., Crytur, spol. s r.o. and UCT Fluid Delivery Solutions s.r.o. were also present and showed great interest in closer cooperation with German and international partners. Representatives of Japanese companies such as Mitsubishi Chemical Europe GmbH, Nuflare Technology Inc., Techno Horizon Co. Ltd. and Kyocera Fine Ceramics took part in the conference virtually and emphasized the relevance of exchange across countries and continents.

For Dr. Stephan Meyer, District Administrator of the Görlitz district, one thing is certain: "Our region already has important locational advantages: from committed specialists and innovative companies to a strong research landscape. Located in the heart of the three-country region, the International Business Conference shows how we can further develop this potential together with international partners and local SMEs and thus position the district of Görlitz as a key region for the semiconductor industry."

Dr. Christian Koitzsch, President of ESMC, explained: " By locating ESMC in Dresden, we are creating new jobs and expanding the basis for a strong supplier industry in Silicon Saxony - from which Upper Lusatia can also benefit considerably. We are looking forward to working closely with the Zittau/Görlitz University of Applied Sciences: the development of new, practice-oriented courses of study not only incorporates the latest research findings, but also the requirements of the semiconductor industry as a whole. This is how we attract motivated young talent for an industry with a great future."

The conference not only provided a platform for technological exchange, but also for the initiation of specific projects, investments and research collaborations. There was a particular focus on securing skilled workers and promoting young talent in order to establish Upper Lusatia as a strong educational, research and production location in the semiconductor sector in the long term. The high level of international interest underlines the region's potential to position itself as an important hub for the global semiconductor industry. An informal get-together rounded off the event and provided an opportunity to deepen contacts and initiate new collaborations.