半导体行业观察·2025-03-11 00:53Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent criticism of the CHIPS Act by former President Trump, which aims to reduce U.S. dependence on Asian semiconductor production and has garnered bipartisan support in Congress [1][2]. Summary by Sections CHIPS Act Overview - The CHIPS Act is a bipartisan law that allocates $50 billion to rebuild the U.S. semiconductor industry, which is crucial for various technologies [2]. - Following the signing of the act by President Biden in 2022, companies have identified new factory locations in states like Arizona, New York, and Ohio [2][3]. Trump's Criticism - Trump labeled the CHIPS Act as "very terrible" during a recent speech, which has raised concerns among semiconductor executives about potential funding retraction [1][2]. - Some Republican senators, including Todd Young, have sought clarification from the White House regarding Trump's comments, emphasizing the act's success [2][6]. Impact on the Semiconductor Industry - The Department of Commerce has already signed contracts providing over $36 billion in federal subsidies under the CHIPS Act, with major companies like Samsung, Intel, and TSMC committing to invest billions in U.S. chip manufacturing [7]. - Trump's proposal to replace incentives with tariffs could increase overseas production costs, potentially affecting TSMC's investment plans in Arizona [7][8]. Internal Changes in the Department of Commerce - Reports indicate that the Department of Commerce has dismissed 40 employees from the CHIPS office, nearly one-third of the team, and is considering changes to subsidy guidelines [5][6]. - The semiconductor industry association held a call to discuss Trump's remarks, attributing his criticism to personal animosity towards Biden [6]. Industry Sentiment - Despite concerns, many industry executives remain confident that their legal agreements with the Department of Commerce will not change [6]. - The article highlights the slow rollout of subsidies, which has frustrated some industry leaders, as the Biden administration took months to review projects after the act's enactment [8]. Conclusion - The CHIPS Act is viewed as a critical initiative for revitalizing U.S. semiconductor manufacturing, with bipartisan support despite recent political tensions [9].