U.S. Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick stated in a CNBC interview that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) could boost its total U.S. investment past $200 billion. This potential expansion would support the creation of 30,000 jobs.
Lutnick’s comments arrive as the current U.S. administration revisits the CHIPS Act. The revised policy favors government equity stakes in semiconductor companies over direct subsidies.
TSMC has already committed $65 billion for three advanced fabrication plants (fabs) in Arizona. The first of these plants has begun mass production. Earlier this year, the chipmaker pledged an additional $100 billion for further expansion, including more fabs and an R&D center.
Lutnick suggests a potential for an even larger long-term commitment from the world's leading chipmaker on U.S. soil. However, the Secretary did not provide specific evidence supporting his belief.