AI-driven semiconductor demand boosts outlook for tungsten from Vietnam

In Vietnam, Masan High-Tech Materials, the mining subsidiary of Masan Group, is positioning itself as a supplier of tungsten-based materials to global technology industries. The company operates one of the world’s largest polymetallic tungsten deposits and has developed processing capabilities aimed at meeting growing international demand for materials supporting AI-related infrastructure.

Growing demand for advanced materials

The expansion of AI applications is accelerating demand for high-performance processors, hyperscale data centers, and high-density computing systems. These technologies require chips that operate continuously under high workloads, generating significant heat within increasingly compact architectures.

As a result, the semiconductor industry has placed greater emphasis on materials capable of maintaining stability under extreme thermal and electrical conditions. Tungsten, with a melting point of 3,422 degrees Celsius and strong electrical and thermal conductivity, has become widely used in chip interconnects and other critical components.

Industry analysts note that such properties allow tungsten-based components to maintain performance under high frequencies and elevated temperatures, supporting the long-term reliability of advanced processors.

Workers work in the advanced tungsten manufacturing plant in Thai Nguyen. Photo courtesy of MHT

Integrated tungsten supply chain

Critical minerals are increasingly central to global technology supply chains, with supply stability, traceability, and product quality becoming key considerations for manufacturers.

Masan High-Tech Materials operates an integrated tungsten value chain that includes mining, refining, and manufacturing. Through its refining facilities, the company produces tungsten products with purity levels of up to 99.9%, which are used in various industrial and high-tech applications.

The company’s operations are anchored by the Nui Phao Mine, one of the largest tungsten deposits globally. According to the company, the integrated model allows it to provide a stable supply of tungsten materials to international markets.

The processing plant at the Nui Phao polymetallic mine. Photo courtesy of MHT

The processing plant at the Nui Phao polymetallic mine. Photo courtesy of MHT

Strategic role in technology infrastructure

While software innovation has driven much of the recent momentum in artificial intelligence, the long-term expansion of AI also depends on robust physical infrastructure, including materials capable of supporting high-performance computing environments.

Data centers and supercomputers, for example, require components that can withstand high heat and continuous operational loads. Materials such as tungsten are therefore considered important for maintaining performance and durability in these systems.

Industry observers note that secure access to critical materials is becoming an increasingly strategic factor in the global semiconductor supply chain.

With its mining resources and processing capabilities, Masan High-Tech Materials aims to expand its role in supplying advanced materials used in semiconductor manufacturing and other high-technology sectors.

Comments are closed.