Sovereignty is a substrate (negroniventurestudios.com)

A recent discussion highlights the overlooked importance of Ajinomoto, a Japanese company best known for its MSG, in the realm of AI chip production. Ajinomoto manufactures the Ajinomoto Build-up Film (ABF), a critical dielectric layer used in modern flip-chip substrates, making it a key player in the supply chain for high-performance CPUs and GPUs. Surprisingly, they control over 95% of the market for this substrate, which is essential for the functionality of advanced AI hardware. This revelation underscores the idea that the true sovereignty in AI infrastructure lies not in the flashy data centers or chip manufacturers frequently discussed, but in the less glamorous, often neglected elements that underpin the entire hardware ecosystem. Parallelly, the UK government recently announced a £1.1 billion AI Hardware Plan focusing on enhancing national capabilities in AI chip design and computing power. However, experts warn that this strategy lacks attention to crucial supply chain components such as packaging and substrates, which are primarily dominated by foreign companies. As the UK aims to foster local design talent and technological innovation, the necessity for a comprehensive approach that includes all vital links in the supply chain—especially those held by companies like Ajinomoto—is essential. Without addressing these foundational aspects, the UK's aspirations for technological sovereignty may remain unfulfilled.