台积电美国厂,真成功了?

Core Viewpoint - TSMC is recognized as a crucial player in the semiconductor industry, with significant efforts to expand its manufacturing capabilities overseas, particularly in the U.S., Japan, and Germany. However, challenges related to cost, efficiency, and supply chain integration remain a concern for TSMC's international operations [1][12][28]. Group 1: TSMC's Global Expansion - TSMC has established joint ventures in the U.S., Japan, and Germany to promote advanced semiconductor manufacturing, but the economic viability of these overseas fabs is questioned [1]. - The company’s founder, Morris Chang, expressed skepticism about the U.S. efforts to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing, stating that the financial investment is insufficient and may lead to costly failures [1][12]. - TSMC's Arizona facility is part of a broader strategy to mitigate geopolitical risks, but it faces challenges in achieving the same operational efficiency as its Taiwanese counterparts due to a less integrated local supply chain [12][17]. Group 2: Workforce and Talent Pool - TSMC employs over 83,000 people globally, with nearly 90% being Taiwanese, highlighting the company's reliance on local talent [2]. - The company has partnered with 17 universities in Taiwan to offer 57 semiconductor-related courses, ensuring a steady supply of skilled engineers [4]. - Despite global expansion, Taiwan remains TSMC's primary talent reservoir, which is crucial for maintaining its competitive edge [4][12]. Group 3: Operational Efficiency and Supply Chain - TSMC's operational success is attributed to its "one-hour semiconductor ecosystem" in Taiwan, which allows for rapid communication and resource sharing among suppliers [13][15]. - The Arizona facility currently relies heavily on its established Asian supply chain, limiting its potential output until local suppliers can scale up [17]. - The integration of local suppliers in Arizona is still in progress, and the lack of a mature semiconductor ecosystem poses significant challenges for TSMC's operations there [17][18]. Group 4: Economic Impact and Strategic Importance - TSMC's role is critical, with eight of the top ten global companies relying on its products, which account for over one-third of their revenue [26][27]. - The U.S. government recognizes the strategic importance of TSMC in the semiconductor supply chain and is providing subsidies to encourage domestic production [28]. - The semiconductor shortage in 2021 highlighted the economic risks associated with dependency on TSMC, leading to increased efforts to localize production [26][28].