TSMC Navigates U.S. Tariffs: Seeking a Win-Win for Taiwan and America

Taiwan's TSMC in Talks with the U.S. Government to Mitigate Tariff Impact and Foster Stronger Semiconductor Ties

Washington, March 28 – Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is actively engaged in discussions with the U.S. administration regarding potential tariffs on semiconductor imports to the United States. A senior executive confirmed that the company is aiming to find a mutually beneficial solution, highlighting the strategic importance of Taiwan's semiconductor industry.

Speaking at a forum hosted by the Hudson Institute, TSMC Senior Vice President Peter Cleveland revealed that the company is maintaining close communication with the White House. He expressed optimism that these discussions would progress positively.

According to Cleveland, ongoing talks primarily focus on Taiwan's significant semiconductor manufacturing capabilities and its exports to the U.S. "And they're listening," he noted, underscoring the receptiveness of the U.S. government to TSMC's concerns.

Despite these efforts, TSMC remains uncertain about the outcome of President Donald Trump's expected introduction of new tariffs on Wednesday.

To preemptively address these concerns and align with President Trump's desire to reshore manufacturing, TSMC has already made substantial investments in the United States. The company recently committed an additional US$100 billion to construct three wafer fabrication plants, two advanced IC packaging facilities, and a research and development center, bringing its total investments in Arizona to US$165 billion.

At the forum, titled "Building a Sustainable and Successful Semiconductor Ecosystem under the Trump Administration," other industry leaders provided their perspectives on the potential impact of the proposed tariffs.

Jonathan Hoganson, head of U.S. government affairs at ASML, a semiconductor equipment supplier, emphasized the industry's hope that the new policy would strengthen the ecosystem rather than create barriers.

Patrick Wilson, vice president of government relations at MediaTek, a smartphone IC designer, also stressed the importance of fostering a favorable business environment for the semiconductor industry.