Toyota Tsusho Corporation announced on October 21, 2026, that it has invested in ChEmpower Corporation, a United States startup that develops chemical materials for chemical mechanical polishing (CMP) in the semiconductor manufacturing process.

The investment was made through the issuance of stock acquisition rights based on a simple agreement for future equity (SAFE), a right that allows the investor to acquire shares in the future under certain conditions.

The Technology Behind the Deal

ChEmpower uses its proprietary chemical technology to develop abrasive-free CMP chemicals and polishing pads. CMP, which Toyota Tsusho describes as indispensable for semiconductor manufacturing, smoothes surfaces by using chemicals and abrasives to eliminate surface irregularities. ChEmpower's groundbreaking approach eliminates the need for abrasive particles, which were essential in traditional CMP processes.

According to the announcement, the abrasive-free technology prevents scratches on the surface of semiconductor silicon wafers and contributes toward improving production yields. In traditional processes, particle disposal was an issue. By using the abrasive-free technology, disposal after use is no longer necessary, and recycling of water and rare metals from waste liquids becomes easier.

Industry Context

Toyota Tsusho noted that semiconductor demand is expanding rapidly at the global level, driven by factors such as the expansion of data centers for artificial intelligence (AI) and higher performance of smartphones.

At the same time, large quantities of abrasive particles and ultrapure water are used in CMP, a key process in semiconductor manufacturing. The company said the loss of materials through disposal and the resulting high impact on the environment are becoming key issues across the industry.

The Toyota Tsusho Group also has a track record of handling chemicals for semiconductor processes and has been studying solutions that contribute toward reducing environmental impact in semiconductor manufacturing.

Purpose of the Investment

Through the investment, Toyota Tsusho will advance the supply of ChEmpower's products to semiconductor manufacturers in Japan.

At the same time, the company will promote resource circulation initiatives through a business that collects waste liquids generated in semiconductor manufacturing and recycles rare metals.

Future Outlook

The Toyota Tsusho Group aims to use the abrasive-free technology to promote resource circulation, from the supply of environmentally friendly materials to the collection and recycling of resources. The company said it intends to build an ecosystem for "green semiconductors" that are friendly to the global environment.

Through this approach, the Group will contribute to reducing environmental impact in semiconductor manufacturing while accelerating initiatives toward realizing a circular economy, which Toyota Tsusho frames under its vision to "Pass on a better Earth to the children of the future."

The information in the release is current as of the date of announcement, and the company noted that details may change afterward.

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