台积电2纳米泄密案，内情曝光

Core Viewpoint - TSMC is entering a significant expansion phase for its 2nm process technology, driven by strong demand for AI chips, leading to a substantial investment in etching equipment, which is critical for wafer fabrication [4][6]. Group 1: TSMC's 2nm Expansion - TSMC is making unprecedented investments in expanding its 2nm production capacity due to the rising demand for AI chips from international clients [4][6]. - The etching process is a key step in wafer fabrication, with each high-precision etching machine costing around 3 to 4 million USD (over 100 million TWD), and each 2nm facility requiring more than 100 such machines [6][7]. Group 2: Supplier Competition - TSMC employs a multi-supplier strategy to mitigate risks and achieve cost efficiency, with major suppliers including Tokyo Electron (TEL), Lam Research, and Applied Materials [5][6]. - TEL holds a dominant market share in critical equipment like photolithography and furnace systems, but faces stiff competition in the etching equipment sector [5][6]. Group 3: Equipment Supplier Dynamics - The etching equipment market is characterized by a "three-horse race" among TEL, Lam Research, and Applied Materials, with each company focusing on different segments of the etching process [6][7]. - Suppliers are under pressure to enhance their equipment to meet TSMC's production demands, which is crucial for gaining market share in this competitive landscape [6][7]. Group 4: Confidentiality Breach Incident - A recent incident involving TSMC's etching equipment procurement revealed that engineers from TEL attempted to access confidential data to improve their equipment, leading to legal actions against them [7][8]. - The prosecution emphasizes the severity of the breach, as it threatens Taiwan's semiconductor industry's international competitiveness, with significant penalties sought for the involved individuals [7][8].