Group 1 - TSMC is expected to produce Apple's A19 processor using 2nm technology in the second half of this year, while competitors Samsung and Intel are facing challenges in yield and progress, respectively [1] - Japan's 2nm technology has reportedly entered trial production and is expected to achieve mass production by next year, positioning Japan to compete directly with TSMC in chip manufacturing [3] - Japan established a chip company, Rapidus, in 2022 with support from major Japanese firms and the government, aiming to revitalize its semiconductor industry, which once held a significant global market share [3] Group 2 - The decline of Japan's semiconductor industry was accelerated by U.S. policies, leading to a loss of market dominance, with companies like Elpida falling behind [5] - The U.S. is seeking to diversify its chip supply sources, as TSMC currently produces 70% of advanced chips for American companies, and TSMC is raising prices for its upcoming 2nm technology by 50% [5] - Japan's Rapidus aims to revitalize its semiconductor sector, aligning with U.S. interests to create competition against TSMC [7] Group 3 - Japan's rapid advancement in 2nm technology is supported by IBM's technological expertise, which has historically played a significant role in chip manufacturing [7] - Japan has acquired advanced 2nm EUV lithography machines from ASML, becoming the third company after Intel and Samsung to do so, enhancing its production capabilities [7] - TSMC aims to maximize the value of its first-generation EUV lithography machines while Japan focuses on quickly achieving mass production of 2nm technology, leveraging its advantages in chip materials [9]