台积电30天稀土断供

Core Viewpoint - TSMC's rare earth inventory is critically low, sufficient for only 30 days, which poses a significant risk to its high-end chip manufacturing capacity if it cannot secure supplies from mainland China [1][3]. Group 1: Supply Chain Challenges - Rare earth materials are essential for the semiconductor supply chain, playing a crucial role in the manufacturing process [3]. - TSMC is actively seeking alternative sources for rare earth materials, considering regions like Australia; however, the local mining industry is not yet mature, making the transition to alternative suppliers time-consuming [3]. - TSMC faces pressure from both the U.S. and China, with the U.S. implementing measures like a "three-month approval system" targeting its mature process operations in mainland China, while China imposes export controls on rare earths, directly impacting TSMC's high-end chip production [3]. Group 2: Geopolitical Implications - TSMC has historically been a pivotal player in the global semiconductor industry, effectively linking the U.S. and China through its advanced foundry services, utilizing U.S. chip design software and equipment while sourcing rare earths and materials from mainland China [3]. - The ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China are severely affecting TSMC, with new U.S. export licensing requirements and China's rare earth export regulations creating significant barriers to its operations in both markets [3]. Group 3: Industry Reactions - Recent comments from Taiwan's Deputy Leader, Hsiao Bi-khim, indicate a commitment to investing in the U.S. semiconductor ecosystem, which includes TSMC and other companies, aiming to enhance productivity through collaboration with U.S. firms like Intel [4]. - A spokesperson from Taiwan's State Council criticized the Taiwanese government's approach, suggesting that the concessions made to the U.S. could ultimately harm Taiwan's semiconductor industry and economy, describing it as "feeding the tiger" [4].