What type of chips will TSMC manufacture in Kumamoto, Japan?

TSMC will manufacture advanced 3-nanometer semiconductors in its second factory in Kumamoto, Japan.

What are the key sectors that will benefit from TSMC's advanced chips in Japan?

The advanced chips will be used in artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous driving sectors.

How does TSMC's expansion in Japan contribute to its economic security?

Hosting advanced semiconductor manufacturing in Japan is seen as having huge significance for the country's economic security.

Home / Technology / TSMC Brings Cutting-Edge AI Chips to Japan

TSMC Brings Cutting-Edge AI Chips to Japan

5 Feb

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Summary

TSMC will manufacture advanced 3-nanometer chips in Kumamoto.
These chips are vital for AI, robotics, and autonomous driving.
Japan aims to boost economic security through this chip production.

TSMC Brings Cutting-Edge AI Chips to Japan

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp. (TSMC) announced plans to produce advanced 3-nanometer semiconductors at its second factory in Kumamoto, Japan. This development is a significant boost for Japan's chipmaking ambitions, especially in strategically important fields such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and autonomous driving.

The cutting-edge chips will be utilized in next-generation AI products and smartphones, meeting a booming global demand. TSMC's first Kumamoto plant, which started mass production in late 2024, manufactures less advanced chips. The company is also expanding its operations in Arizona, USA, to further meet the escalating demand driven by the AI frenzy.

This strategic decision by TSMC underscores Japan's forward-looking semiconductor policy and its commitment to economic security. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has emphasized the immense significance of hosting such advanced semiconductor manufacturing capabilities within Japan, viewing it as crucial for national security. The initiative aligns with Japan's broader efforts to strengthen its position in global advanced chipmaking competitiveness, including substantial subsidies for domestic chipmaker Rapidus.