难舍内地千亿“芯”市场，台积电董事长亲自来了

Core Viewpoint - TSMC's chairman, Wei Zhejia, is set to visit mainland China for the OIP ecosystem forum, indicating a strategic shift in TSMC's approach to collaboration with local companies amidst ongoing U.S. chip restrictions [5][6][10]. Group 1: TSMC's Strategic Moves - Wei Zhejia's participation in the OIP forum in Nanjing marks the culmination of a global tour aimed at enhancing TSMC's ecosystem, emphasizing the importance of the Chinese market for TSMC's operations [7][8]. - The forum will focus on the integration of AI potential with TSMC's advanced processes and packaging technologies, particularly addressing energy efficiency challenges in next-generation AI chips [7][8]. - TSMC's engagement with Alibaba and other local firms reflects a commitment to deepening partnerships in the semiconductor sector, especially in AI and IoT applications [8][12]. Group 2: Market Dynamics and Challenges - Despite U.S. restrictions, the projected demand for chips in China is expected to reach between 100 billion to 200 billion units by 2025, presenting a significant opportunity for semiconductor companies [14]. - TSMC's current operations in mainland China are primarily focused on 28nm mature processes, which local companies have already mastered, indicating a potential competitive landscape [14][16]. - The visit is seen as a balancing act for TSMC, navigating compliance with U.S. regulations while seeking to expand its market presence in China [10][18]. Group 3: Potential Collaboration and Impact - Possible collaboration areas include deepening partnerships in mature process technologies and developing solutions for IoT and automotive electronics [18]. - TSMC's expertise in advanced packaging and process technologies could enhance the performance of local chip designs, fostering innovation within the Chinese semiconductor ecosystem [16][18]. - The visit underscores the complex dynamics of the semiconductor industry, where TSMC's strategic adjustments could influence the entire supply chain amid geopolitical tensions [18][19].