TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Minister of Economic Affairs J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) on Monday (March. 10) apologized for his recent comments comparing TSMC's (台積電) potential joint venture with Intel to a derogatory term.
In response to reporters' questions earlier that day, Kuo acknowledged the remarks caused distress among individuals with Down syndrome and affected the government's policy efforts. He expressed his deepest apologies while bowing, aiming to mitigate the controversy.
Kuo stated that Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) consistently urged government officials to prioritize the people, exercise caution in their words, and remain accountable to both the legislature and the public. Kuo vowed to self-reflect and exercised greater caution in future statements.
However, Kuo's remarks also indicated a discrepancy regarding TSMC's U.S. investment plans. While the Presidential Office claimed complete prior knowledge, Kuo stated, "No one told me in advance," contradicting the president.
Clarifying his earlier statement, Kuo emphasized that the government and TSMC maintain close contact. He explained that his comment referred to the procedural aspects of investment review, noting that TSMC has not yet made a formal investment decision. Consequently, the Ministry of Economic Affairs' Investment Review Committee (經濟部投資審議會) has not received an official application.