WASHINGTOＮ (TVBS News) — Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC, 台積電) announced plans Monday (March 3) to invest at least US$100 billion (nearly NT$3.3 trillion) in the U.S. to build three new chip manufacturing plants, two packaging facilities, and one research and development center. TSMC Chairman and CEO C.C. Wei (魏哲家) joined U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House for an afternoon press event to unveil this ambitious expansion.
Trump emphasized the significance of this plan, stating, "We must be able to build the chips and semiconductors that we need right here." He also underscored the critical nature of semiconductors, noting, "Without the semiconductors, there is no economy." He acknowledged potential repercussions on the U.S. chip industry if Taiwan faces geopolitical issues, despite the new facilities securing a foothold for America in this sector.
Nikkei Asia reported that Trump indicated TSMC's decision to manufacture in the U.S. would spare its products from additional tariffs, which they might face if produced abroad. Trump has repeatedly threatened to impose a 100% tariff on imported chip products, highlighting the benefits of domestic production. TSMC's substantial investment marks a significant step in bolstering the U.S. semiconductor industry, potentially reducing reliance on foreign imports.
