TSMC Eyes 2nm Tech Move Abroad Amid Trump's Request, Security Concerns

Nov 29, 2024, 02:18 AM

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is open to discussing the potential relocation of its advanced 2nm process technology to other democratic countries after 2025, when mass production in Taiwan is expected to begin. This decision comes amid concerns that President-elect Donald Trump might request the technology be moved to the United States. TSMC has filed plans with the U.S. Department of Commerce indicating that it might start 2nm production in the U.S. around 2028. The move has sparked a debate among Taiwanese tech leaders on whether overseas chipmaking could pose a security threat to Taiwan. According to National Science and Technology Council Minister Cheng-Wen Wu, TSMC would be allowed to invest in advanced technology abroad only three years after mass production has commenced in Taiwan.