TSMC Begins Mass Production in Japan Facility

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has officially launched mass production at its first fabrication facility in Kumamoto, Japan, focusing on 12 to 28-nanometer logic semiconductors for image sensors and the automotive sector, with major clients including Sony and Denso. This facility, part of a broader expansion strategy, will be followed by a second plant set to produce more advanced 6-nanometer chips, anticipated to begin operations by the end of 2027. The Japanese government is heavily investing in this initiative, providing over 1 trillion yen in subsidies to enhance domestic semiconductor production amid geopolitical uncertainties. Local authorities are monitoring environmental impacts, particularly concerning groundwater usage and wastewater management, as residents express concerns. In addition to its Japanese expansion, TSMC is ramping up operations in Taiwan, with plans for five factories in Kaohsiung aimed at bolstering the local semiconductor industry. Overall, TSMC's initiatives emphasize its commitment to diversifying its production capabilities globally and addressing critical supply chain vulnerabilities.