Cree set to double LED chip output

HUIZHOU, Guangdong: Cree Inc, a market leader in light emitting diode (LED) lighting, will double its chip production capacity next year to meet strong worldwide growth, a top company executive said.

The NASDAQ-listed US company signed an agreement with the local government of this southern Chinese city yesterday to build the world's largest manufacturing plant, with a floor area of 55,000 sq m, for LED chips. It is projected to start operating from July next year.

"This investment enables us to expand our presence in China and demonstrates our commitment to serving the growing demands of both our local and global LED customers," said Chuck Swoboda, Cree chairman and CEO.