Russian Chipmaker Mikron Seeks Chinese Language Instructor Amid Deepening Tech Ties With Beijing

Mikron, the Russian microelectronics manufacturer, is seeking a Chinese language instructor to help employees engage with technical documentation and business communications in Chinese.

Reported by Russian news outlet CNews on April 7, Mikron, part of the Element Group, plans to employ a Chinese language instructor to teach its staff to read and analyze Chinese technical texts, such as specifications and circuit documentation, while trying to enhance their business communication skills, including negotiations, correspondence, and presentations.

In April 2022, Mikron reported its first net profit in over a decade, amounting to $3 million (258 million rubles). Despite being placed under US sanctions in 2022, the company has continued to expand.

Mikron, which specializes in producing integrated circuits and microelectronics, has played a key role in Russia’s technology sector, producing more than 800 product types, including those for automotive electronics, IoT devices, secure data carriers, and payment systems.

Among the critical components Mikron manufactures are those used in military applications, such as radar systems, communications equipment, and defense electronics, including ballistic missile and drone capabilities.

The company’s job listing, published on the Russian HeadHunter portal, indicates that the instructor will develop and conduct Chinese language courses for Mikron’s employees.

Industry sources suggest the need for a Chinese teacher at Mikron is tied to the company’s growing collaboration with Chinese partners in the production of electronic components.

At the Microelectronics 2024 forum held in Russia, a representative of Nanotronika also part of the Element Group, revealed plans to establish a branch in China and attract foreign specialists experienced in electronic engineering.

Although Element has yet to comment on the specific details of these plans, the company’s efforts signal a significant expansion into China’s market.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported significant progress in the country’s drone production, with over 20 new certified fiber-optic-controlled drone models introduced since the start of the year.