The Japanese government has announced over 800 billion yen (US$5.4 billion) in additional funding for semiconductor manufacturer Rapidus, bringing its total support to US$11.5 billion.

Rapidus plans to mass-produce advanced 2-nanometer chips in Japan, with prototype production set to begin at its Hokkaido facility in April.

The new funds will help acquire equipment, raw materials, and implement production technologies.

Japan’s industry ministry confirmed that the additional funds are aimed at strengthening Rapidus’ production capabilities.

A proposed bill in Japan’s Diet could make the government a shareholder in Rapidus. If passed, it would also allocate an additional 100 billion yen (US$668 million) to the company.