TSMC Invests $100 Billion in U.S. Semiconductor Expansion

Categories: Arizona Business NewsArizona State News

An artist's rendering of TSMC's planned semiconductor fabrication plant in the U.S.

News Summary

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has announced a landmark investment of $100 billion in the United States to enhance its semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. The plan includes the establishment of three new fabrication plants, two advanced packaging facilities, and a research and development center primarily in Arizona. This initiative aims to meet the growing demand for semiconductors from major tech clients and addresses concerns over tariffs on semiconductor products. With significant economic implications and potential job creation in the region, TSMC’s move represents a crucial step in bolstering domestic manufacturing amidst evolving market challenges.

Arizona – Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has announced a significant investment of $100 billion to expand its operations in the United States, primarily focused on the construction of semiconductor fabrication plants, advanced packaging facilities, and a research and development center. This initiative underscores TSMC’s commitment to bolstering domestic manufacturing capabilities amidst growing concerns regarding tariffs on semiconductor products.

As part of this expansion, TSMC plans to establish three new semiconductor fabrication plants and two advanced packaging facilities, the exact locations of which are still being evaluated. The company currently owns 1,100 acres (approximately 445 hectares) in Arizona, which is intended for the construction of up to six fabrication plants. However, the two advanced packaging plants and the R&D center are likely to require separate sites.

The anticipated construction aims to address the rising demand for semiconductors from major clients, including tech giants like Apple, NVIDIA, and AMD, by prioritizing the development of CoWoS and InFO packaging lines in the U.S. The company has confirmed that it began production of its 4nm chips at its Arizona facility as of January; however, these chips will still be sent to Taiwan for advanced packaging due to the current lack of packing capacity in the U.S.

Future Developments

TSMC recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Amkor in October, intending to provide InFO and CoWoS packaging support in Arizona, though this capacity is not yet operational. Establishing advanced packaging facilities will require at least four years, as projected by Central News Agency. One significant challenge for this initiative is the need for metal bumping infrastructure essential for processes like CoWoS, which utilizes copper pillar technology extensively.

Currently, TSMC’s advanced packaging capabilities, such as SoIC, CoWoS, and InFO, are predominantly based in Taiwan. The company’s existing Fab 21 Phase 2 facility in Arizona is in the process of installing cleanrooms and electromechanical systems, aiming for trial production by late 2026. Furthermore, the groundbreaking for Phase 3 of Fab 21 is set for mid-2024, with the facility expected to run trials by 2027.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

TSMC anticipates that its ambitious Arizona project will generate substantial economic output and create tens of thousands of jobs over the upcoming decade. The importance of demand from its key customers is crucial for the commercial success of TSMC’s U.S.-based manufacturing efforts. It is common for TSMC to associate three fabrication plants with a single advanced packaging plant.

Concerns Over Tariffs

Despite these plans, TSMC has expressed concern to the White House regarding the potential implications of tariffs on semiconductors and equipment, which could threaten its expansion and domestic manufacturing strategies. The company articulated that these tariffs could diminish demand for U.S.-made chips, complicating their ongoing operations and investment endeavors. TSMC advocates for “pro-growth” policies and tax credits that would facilitate domestic manufacturing while steering clear of restrictive measures like tariffs.

As of now, finished semiconductors remain exempt from tariffs, but a potential “Section 232” investigation could alter that status. Both TSMC and Intel have raised alarms about how tariffs might hinder their competitiveness on a global scale and impact U.S. national security. Any tariffs implemented could lead to uncertainties surrounding the construction and operation timelines for TSMC’s fabs.

In summary, TSMC’s $100 billion investment signifies a bold step towards expanding semiconductor production capabilities in the U.S. amid increasing demand from clients and lingering uncertainties over tariff implications. With the construction and eventual operation of its fabrication and advanced packaging plants, TSMC aims to solidify its manufacturing footprint while generating extensive economic benefits within Arizona.