From ComputerWorld: Semiconductor maker Micron Technology is closing a manufacturing facility in Puerto Rico and moving the work to China.
Around 185 jobs are affected by the closure, which is due to be completed by the end of this month, according to a U.S. government filing.
This is not good news for Puerto Rico, which has an unemployment rate of more than 12% and is now struggling with a debt crisis. But it may be helpful for China; it's trying to increase its semiconductor manufacturing capability by investing in U.S. firms -- to the concern of some U.S. lawmakers.
In 2003, Micron broke ground on a 48,000-square-foot "advanced technology DRAM module assembly" facility in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico. Micron already had more than 200 employees working at a temporary facility on the island.
But last month, Micron filed for Trade Adjustment Assistant (TAA) benefits for the employees in Puerto Rico, and in its application to the U.S. Labor Department the firm wrote: "Due to economic pressures on the business the Micron Puerto Rico site will be closed on approximately Dec. 31, 2015. The module line operation and equipment will be transferred to Xian, China."
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