VoltIn the context of rapid growth in semiconductor demand, Taiwanese chip manufacturer TSMC is considering building a factory in Germany. CEO Mark Liu said at the annual shareholder meeting on Monday that in addition to Germany, the construction of such a factory in Japan is also under review. If it is considered to be realized, TSMC will strive to share the cost with customers or the country.
At present, the supply of computer chips in many industries is in short supply, also because the demand has increased again during the corona crisis. It provides additional impetus to the digitization of the world. Last but not least, due to shortages, German automakers have had to suspend production in many cases in recent months. Chip manufacturers are currently investing a lot of money to expand production capacity.
In order to ensure the long-term supply of chips, the European Union and individual countries are increasingly targeting domestic production. The chip company Intel recently advertised for more government funding. German boss Christin Eisenschmid told the editorial network Germany that it needs an environment while allowing competitive production in Europe.
For example, in Asia, production can be 40% cheaper. Most of this comes from subsidies, which have been part of the government’s industrial strategy for many years. “In order to manufacture more semiconductors in Europe, similar funding policies are also necessary,” Eisenschmid was quoted as saying.
The American group already operates a chip factory in Ireland, is planning to set up another location in Europe, and is expected to receive billions of dollars in funding. Bavaria hopes to reach a settlement.
