Taiwan Premier Declares TSMC Will Never Be an ‘American Foundry’, Emphasizing Limited U.S. Investment Efforts

According to recent statements from Taiwan’s Premier, TSMC will firmly remain a Taiwan-based entity, despite its investments in the United States. Premier Cho Jung-tai emphasized that these investments do not signify a departure from TSMC’s roots.

Taiwan’s Premier: TSMC’s US Investments Fall Short of Meeting American Demands

The Taiwanese government has taken a cautious stance regarding TSMC’s expansion in the U. S.Initially, there was reluctance to allow the chip manufacturer to produce advanced semiconductor nodes on American soil. This position began to soften during the Trump administration, as TSMC had to consider substantial tariffs, making U. S.investments necessary. However, Premier Cho has reaffirmed that TSMC will not become a U. S.company, firmly rejecting any notion of the U. S.government acquiring a stake in the company.

These remarks come amid speculation about a potential agreement between TSMC and the Trump administration, which hinted at U. S.ownership of a stake in the Taiwanese chipmaker. This rumor ignited considerable apprehension in Taiwanese media, with many suggesting that the current U. S.administration desires TSMC to transform into a “U. S.Foundry”initiative. TSMC has since clarified that it has not received any such proposal, and Premier Cho has corroborated that no agreements exist between President Trump and TSMC regarding ownership or investment.

Two men standing at a podium with the Seal of the President of the United States and a bookshelf in the background. — President Trump & TSMC CEO

Currently, TSMC has committed to investing $165 billion in the U. S., although reports previously indicated this amount could rise to $300 billion. Premier Cho pointed out that the Taiwanese government does not dictate the manufacturing and investment strategies of TSMC or other domestic firms, signifying a hands-off policy towards corporate decisions.

While TSMC has played a pivotal role in enhancing the U. S.semiconductor industry, it remains clear that it will not emerge as a wholly-owned American manufacturer. The lack of access to critical technologies from TSMC indicates that the need for a fully domestic chip producer is still pressing. This situation has led the Trump administration to refocus efforts on domestic companies like Intel to fill this gap.

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