The global semiconductor industry is abuzz with speculation following recent comments from Taiwan’s Minister of the Science and Technology Council, Wu Tsung-tsong (also referred to as Wu Cheng-wen).
In a press conference, Wu suggested that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s leading chipmaker, could potentially shift its cutting-edge 2-nanometer (2nm) chip manufacturing technology to other countries, including the United States, after 2025. This development could mark a significant milestone in the global semiconductor landscape, as TSMC’s 2nm process is set to compete directly with Intel’s 18A process, also slated for production in 2025.
TSMC’s 2nm Technology: A Game-Changer in the Semiconductor Race
TSMC’s 2nm process represents the next leap in semiconductor technology, promising faster, more energy-efficient chips that will power everything from smartphones to artificial intelligence systems. The Taiwanese chip giant plans to begin mass production of 2nm chips in Taiwan in 2025, solidifying its position as a leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing.
However, Minister Wu’s remarks hint at the possibility of expanding this groundbreaking technology to “friendly nations” after production begins. This could include the United States, where TSMC is already building advanced manufacturing facilities as part of its global expansion strategy.
U.S. Push for Semiconductor Leadership: The Role of the CHIPS Act
The United States has been aggressively courting semiconductor companies like TSMC to bolster its domestic chip manufacturing capabilities. Under the CHIPS and Science Act, the Biden Administration has allocated billions of dollars in subsidies to attract global semiconductor leaders. TSMC has already secured $6.6 billion in U.S. funding to establish three manufacturing plants in the country.
One of these facilities, expected to begin operations by the end of the decade, will focus on producing 2nm chips. This aligns with the U.S. government’s broader goal of reducing reliance on foreign chipmakers and strengthening its semiconductor supply chain.
When asked about the potential acceleration of advanced chip technology transfers to the U.S., Wu emphasized that any decision to expand 2nm manufacturing overseas would depend on discussions at the government level. His comments suggest that Taiwan is open to collaborating with allied nations to share its semiconductor expertise while safeguarding its own technological edge.
Addressing Concerns About Taiwan’s Semiconductor Industry
During the press conference, Wu also addressed concerns about the so-called “hollowing out” of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry—a fear that TSMC’s global expansion could weaken the island’s dominance in chip manufacturing.
Wu reassured reporters that Taiwan’s semiconductor ecosystem remains robust, with TSMC’s research and development (R&D) facilities firmly rooted on the island. While TSMC is expanding its manufacturing footprint to countries like the U.S. and Japan, these moves have not included commitments to establish R&D centers abroad. This ensures that the core of TSMC’s innovation pipeline remains in Taiwan.
“Semiconductor fabrication is a cornerstone of Taiwan’s economy and national security,” Wu stated. He highlighted that TSMC is not only the most valuable company on Taiwan’s stock market but also a critical driver of the region’s economic growth.
Taiwan’s Role in the Global Semiconductor Ecosystem
Wu also took the opportunity to underscore Taiwan’s unique position in the global semiconductor supply chain. While TSMC leads the world in advanced chip manufacturing, Wu acknowledged that the United States remains a global leader in other critical areas of semiconductor production, including design intellectual property and manufacturing materials.
This interdependence between Taiwan and the U.S. highlights the importance of collaboration in the semiconductor industry. By potentially expanding 2nm manufacturing to the U.S., TSMC could strengthen this partnership while helping allied nations develop localized chip production capabilities.
What’s Next for TSMC and Global Semiconductor Manufacturing?
As TSMC prepares to launch its 2nm process in 2025, the company’s decisions regarding global expansion will be closely watched. Minister Wu’s comments suggest that Taiwan is willing to share its semiconductor expertise with friendly nations, but only after ensuring that its own technological leadership remains secure.
For the U.S., the potential transfer of 2nm manufacturing technology represents a significant opportunity to enhance its domestic chipmaking capabilities and compete with global rivals like China. However, any such move will require careful coordination between TSMC, the Taiwanese government, and its international partners.
In the coming years, the semiconductor industry will continue to evolve as nations invest heavily in advanced manufacturing technologies. TSMC’s 2nm process is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping this future, whether it remains concentrated in Taiwan or expands to other parts of the world.
Why This Matters
The semiconductor industry is not just about technology—it’s about geopolitics, economic security, and global competition. TSMC’s potential move to bring 2nm manufacturing to the U.S. could redefine the balance of power in the chipmaking world. As nations race to secure their place in the semiconductor supply chain, TSMC’s decisions will have far-reaching implications for the global economy and technological innovation.
Stay tuned as we continue to monitor developments in this critical industry.
