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A new report from the Council for Science and Technology (CST) warns that the UK must act decisively to build a world-leading AI chip design industry, or risk becoming solely a consumer of technology. The report calls this a ‘once-in-20-years opportunity’ with significant implications for economic prosperity and national security as the AI chip market experiences rapid growth. Rather than focusing solely on manufacturing, the CST emphasizes the UK’s potential to excel in the more creative and knowledge-intensive process of chip design. The ambitious goal is to see UK companies design 50 new AI chip products in the next five years. However, the report highlights critical gaps in skills, funding, and strategic coordination. A shortage of skilled chip designers is a key concern, and the CST recommends government investment in university bursaries and a national chip design training program. The report also identifies optoelectronics as a promising area. Experts emphasize the necessity of a cohesive national strategy, with strong collaboration between government departments, and affordable access to essential design tools and licenses. Failure to cultivate a strong AI chip design sector could leave the UK reliant on a single dominant overseas supplier. Despite the challenges, the report expresses optimism, citing the presence of established companies like Arm and growing momentum in the AI sector.