Jessie Shen

 

Toshiba and Amkor Technology have both agreed to postpone discussions regarding the previously-announced proposed acquisition by Amkor of Toshiba's semiconductor assembly operations in Malaysia, according to the companies. The announcement came on the heels of reports that Toshiba's operation in Thailand has been affected by severe flooding in the country.

Located at Bangkadi Industrial Park (Pathumtani, Thailand), Toshiba's chip-assembly plant has been closed since October 12. "With the water at its current level, we anticipate a long-term shutdown. The date of resumption of operation is unpredictable," according to the company's latest statement regarding the impact of Thailand's floods on its local operation.

"We are working closely with Toshiba to support them during this challenging time and we certainly understand and respect their decision to postpone our negotiations at this time while they focus on the more immediate business needs created by the flood," said Ken Joyce, Amkor's president and CEO.

Amkor in September announced plans to take over Toshiba's semiconductor assembly operation in Malaysia, with the transaction originally expected to close by early January 2012.