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TSMC Reevaluates Site for Its New 1.4nm Factory in Taiwan Amid Controversies

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) has recently stirred up public attention as it reconsiders the location for its planned 1.4nm factory in Taiwan. Initially set to be established in the Longtan Phase 3 Science Park, TSMC announced that it is now exploring alternative sites.

According to a press release from TSMC, internal assessments concluded that current conditions are not favorable for proceeding with the original location in Longtan Phase 3 Science Park. This decision immediately sparked widespread discussions and debates.

Interestingly, government bodies associated with the Longtan Science Park, including the Taoyuan City Government, National Science Council, and Ministry of Economic Affairs, have all clarified their positions and disassociated themselves from the change in plans. None have made efforts to retain TSMC's initial project in Longtan. Conversely, local governments from Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Taichung swiftly expressed their interest in hosting TSMC's new factory.

Significantly, TSMC opted for an early exit from Longtan following initial public opposition. This reflects TSMC’s sensitivity to public protest and a strong commitment to shareholder interests and stable operations.

TSMC is currently engaged in aggressive expansion plans in Taiwan. For example, their 2nm factory in Hsinchu's Baoshan is scheduled to begin production in 2025. Two advanced packaging factories, AP6B and AP6C, located in Chunan, are also under active development. Original plans for two 12-inch factories in Kaohsiung, along with 7nm and 28nm production plans, have recently been adjusted, delaying production timelines slightly compared to the Baoshan site.

In summary, the change in plans for TSMC’s 1.4nm new factory has drawn extensive attention and is expected to influence the company’s future technological advancements. TSMC continues its search for the most suitable location, aiming to keep its 1.4nm technology development on track.

TSMC is also pursuing several overseas factory projects globally, including factories in Arizona, USA; Kumamoto, Japan; and Dresden, Germany. These international efforts underline TSMC's commitment to maintaining its leadership in the semiconductor industry and ensuring supply chain resilience.


LocationProcessFunction Time
Hsinchu Baoshan2nm2025
ChunanAdvanced packagingUnder construction
Kaohsiung2nmSlightly later than Hsinchu Baoshan

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