Full Breakdown
GlobalFoundries Ramps Up China Operations to Meet Surge in Optical-Module Demand
By Drooid · · How we work
Data-centre boom fuels Chinese optical-module market
The rapid construction of AI-focused data centres has driven “strong” demand for Chinese optical networking modules, according to Shankaran Janardhanan, senior vice-president of GlobalFoundries’ photonics and radio-frequency division. These modules, which carry data at 100 Gbps per lane and are transitioning to 200 Gbps per lane, are essential for high-performance data-centre interconnects. U.S. hyperscalers such as Microsoft, Amazon and Meta Platforms, together with Chinese tech giants Alibaba Group Holding and Tencent Holdings, are accelerating the rollout of optical connectivity to support AI workloads.
GlobalFoundries expands manufacturing footprint in China
To capture this growth, GlobalFoundries has deepened its presence in China. The firm opened a new office in Guangzhou earlier this month and entered a partnership with local foundry Zen Semi to produce 40-nanometre automotive chips. Janardhanan added that the partnership demonstrates a viable model for localized production while preserving global supply-chain resilience, noting the company’s facilities span the United States, Europe and Asia.
Official statements and strategic outlook
He highlighted GlobalFoundries’ silicon-photonics co-packaged light-engine, branded “Scale,” as a solution aimed at mass-producing complex components.
Verbatim quote
> “China is moving very fast in real-world physical AI deployment.” — Shankaran Janardhanan, senior vice-president of the firm’s photonics and radio-frequency division
Outlook
GlobalFoundries plans to assess further expansion on a case-by-case basis, positioning itself as a holistic technology partner that combines semiconductor expertise with processor IP and software capabilities as the Chinese AI ecosystem evolves.