Applied Materials Plans 25% Southeast Asia Workforce Expansion as Chip Talent Race Intensifies

Singapore, 3 June 2026 – Applied Materials is planning to expand its Southeast Asia workforce by about 25% this year, underscoring the region’s growing role in the global semiconductor supply chain as chipmakers and equipment suppliers race to secure talent for the next phase of technology growth.

The US semiconductor equipment maker aims to add about 1,000 workers across Southeast Asia, with most of the new roles expected to be based in Singapore. The expansion would build on Applied Materials’ recent regional growth, after its workforce increased from about 3,300 employees two years ago to nearly 4,000 by the end of 2025.