台积电30天稀土断供？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the critical situation faced by TSMC due to the ongoing trade tensions between the US and China, particularly focusing on the supply of rare earth materials essential for semiconductor manufacturing [2][4]. Group 1: TSMC's Supply Chain Challenges - TSMC's rare earth inventory is reported to last only 30 days, which poses a significant risk to its high-end chip manufacturing capacity if it cannot secure supplies from mainland China [2]. - The company is actively seeking alternative sources for rare earth materials, considering regions like Australia; however, the local mining industry in these areas is not yet mature enough to meet TSMC's needs promptly [4]. Group 2: Geopolitical Pressures - TSMC is caught in a difficult position between the US and China, facing pressure from the US through measures like the "three-month approval system" targeting its mature process operations in mainland China [4]. - China's new export regulations on rare earths are seen as a direct countermeasure, threatening TSMC's access to critical materials for high-end chip production [4]. Group 3: Industry Implications - TSMC has historically been a pivotal player in the global semiconductor landscape, leveraging US design software and equipment while sourcing materials from China, exemplifying globalization in the industry [4]. - The ongoing trade war is described as tearing apart TSMC's operations, with new US export licensing rules and China's rare earth export regulations acting as barriers to its market access [4]. Group 4: Taiwan's Political Landscape - The article highlights comments from Taiwan's Deputy Leader, who mentioned commitments to invest in collaboration with US companies, including TSMC, which raises concerns about Taiwan's concessions to the US and the potential impact on its semiconductor industry [5]. - The spokesperson for Taiwan's State Council criticized the Taiwanese government's approach, suggesting that it is compromising too much to appease the US, which could ultimately harm the local industry [5].