TSMC has recently announced plans to invest an additional US$100 billion in the U.S., prompting discussions about Taiwan’s critical semiconductor leadership position. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) and TSMC Chairman and CEO C.C. Wei (魏哲家) held a joint press conference to address public concerns, emphasizing that this investment decision was made without pressure from the U.S. government and that Taiwan’s technological advantages will be upheld.
Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) reaffirmed that TSMC’s production plans in Taiwan remain unchanged and are continuing to expand. He stressed the importance of national unity in public policy to ensure Taiwan maintains its leading position in critical technologies internationally. Cho emphasized creating an environment conducive to investment, with stable labor relations and sufficient energy supplies as key factors for Taiwan's continued technological leadership.
Economic Minister J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) assured that TSMC’s most advanced and critical technologies will stay in Taiwan. He stated that the research center planned for the U.S. will focus on process optimization and yield improvement rather than core technology transfer. These statements come amid concerns that TSMC might shift its critical operations following the investment announcement.
Premier Cho highlighted Taiwan’s sovereignty over its own defense and economic decisions. He noted that Taiwan will continue to strengthen its military capabilities while maintaining fiscal responsibility, stating that peace comes from either strength or surrender, and Taiwan has chosen to become stronger. The administration remains confident that with proper domestic support, Taiwan will preserve its crucial position in global semiconductor supply chains.