Concerns Grow in Taiwan Over TSMC's Increasing U.S. Investments

A new poll reveals that half of Taiwanese respondents fear Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is shifting focus towards the United States due to significant investments, raising concerns about national economic impacts.

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A recent survey has revealed that approximately 50% of Taiwanese citizens are worried that the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) is increasingly morphing into a U.S.-oriented enterprise. This sentiment comes after TSMC embarked on substantial investment plans in the United States, which initially started under the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

The apprehensions in Taiwan are largely fueled by TSMC's announcements committing to investments described as being in the 'hundreds of millions' of dollars on American soil. Such investments are seen as a strategic move to cater to a growing demand for semiconductors in the U.S., particularly in light of global supply chain vulnerabilities exacerbated by geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic.

TSMC, the world's leading semiconductor manufacturer, has long been hailed as a cornerstone of Taiwan's economy, playing a crucial role in the island's technological advancement and global economic presence. The company's choice to expand its operations in the U.S. has sparked debates over potential risks to Taiwan's economic sovereignty.

While TSMC continues to assert its commitment to its Taiwanese roots, emphasizing its strategic importance and continued investment in Taiwan, the move also aligns with broader industry trends where tech companies diversify production geographically to hedge against regional instabilities.

The significance of TSMC cannot be overstated; the company is responsible for producing a majority of the world's advanced semiconductors, which are critical for various industries, including automotive, consumer electronics, and defense sectors.

Experts in Taiwan urge a balanced approach, encouraging TSMC to maintain strength in both domestic and international markets. They argue that while global expansion is essential, it is equally important for TSMC to safeguard Taiwan's leading position in chip manufacturing.

The poll highlights growing unease among Taiwanese about the broader implications of TSMC's investment trajectory on the local economy, employment, and technological leadership. The continued rise of TSMC's presence in other countries will remain a topic of critical attention as the global semiconductor landscape evolves.

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