TMTPOST -- Chinese home appliance giant Gree Electric has successfully developed its own chips, local media reported on Monday, citing Chairwoman Dong Mingzhu. This marks a significant milestone six years after the company embarked on its journey into semiconductor technology. Speaking to Sina.com, Dong revealed that Gree has achieved capabilities in chip research, design, and manufacturing without financial support from the Chinese government. However, she did not specify the types of chips the company is producing. In 2018, Gree established a subsidiary focused on designing chips for air conditioners as part of its ambition to expand into smart home products. At the time, Dong noted that the company spent 4 billion yuan ($549.45 million) annually on purchasing chips for its air conditioning systems. In March this year, Dong announced plans to construct a Silicon Carbide (SiC) chip factory, with production expected to commence in June. Gree is not alone in this endeavor. Other Chinese consumer electronics manufacturers, such as Xiaomi and Midea, have also invested in chip development in recent years, aiming to enhance self-reliance and build more resilient supply chains amid a changing global semiconductor landscape.