TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) Chairman Eric Chu (朱立倫) raised concerns on Wednesday (March 5) over Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company's (TSMC, 台積電) decision to increase its investment in the U.S. by at least US$100 billion. Chu questioned President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) about the benefits Taiwan would receive as the U.S. gains production technology and talent.
TSMC plans to use the investment to build three wafer fabrication plants, two advanced packaging facilities, and a research and development center. Chu noted that many view this move as Taiwan losing its production base and research centers, sparking concerns about how many professionals might relocate to the U.S.
Chu emphasized the significance of TSMC as a "national security" asset and urged the government to safeguard domestic industries. He questioned why the Lai administration had not taken a proactive stance, leaving TSMC to face potential challenges alone. Chu called for cross-party discussions to address Taiwan's future advantages in the AI and trade wars.