Microchip Technology Receives BIS Export License for Advanced FPGA R&D in Armenia

Microchip Technology’s Armenian office received approval from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) for an export license. The approval authorizes use of controlled advanced technology and related high-performance hardware tied to advanced electronic and FPGA development, enabling specified Armenia-based personnel to access that technology for approved research and development.

The authorization requires compliance with U.S. export regulations, including defined permitted end uses, controlled access to sensitive technology, and internal compliance safeguards. The license approval related to ECCN 3E001 and ECCN 3A001.a.7.b was described as supporting Microchip’s work in Armenia within the global regulatory framework.

The BIS designation ECCN 3E001 applies to certain controlled technology associated with advanced electronic and FPGA development. The authorization allows approved Armenia-based personnel to access and work with specified controlled technology for authorized research and development programs, subject to U.S. export-control regulations, Microchip’s internal compliance processes, technology-control procedures, training requirements, and access restrictions.

Shakeel Peera, vice president of Microchip’s FPGA business unit, said, “As the only multinational semiconductor company in Armenia to receive a site license from BIS, this approval highlights our commitment to high‑value semiconductor innovation through strong global operations and solidifies our support of the region’s rapidly growing technology ecosystem,” said Shakeel Peera, vice president of Microchip’s FPGA business unit. “The license enables our Armenia engineering team to participate in the development of advanced FPGA technologies while meeting the rigorous compliance standards required for controlled engineering work.” Mkhitar Hayrapetyan, Minister of High-Tech Industry of the Republic of Armenia, added, “This represents a crucial precedent and a significant step toward strengthening Armenia’s position within the global semiconductor supply chain. The approval of the export license reduces barriers, supporting broader participation for Armenia’s engineering talent in advanced chip design, full-complexity development and validation processes. It opens new opportunities for innovation and collaboration with partners such as Microchip Armenia.” The company stated its Armenia presence began in 2023 after acquiring Instigate Semiconductor and that its local workforce expanded by 43 percent, with offices in Yerevan, Gyumri, Vanadzor and Ijevan, focused on hardware and software development, application engineering and customer support under Microchip’s FPGA business unit.