TSMC plans new Japan chip plant with investment reported at $17 bln

STORY: “I am honored to be here to announce a new gigafab plan in Kumamoto, Japan.” Taiwan’s TSMC is stepping up its global expansion, with Chief Executive C.C. Wei confirming plans to mass‑produce advanced 3‑nanometer chips in Kumamoto, southern Japan.Local media put the investment at $17 billion, and it comes as the company moves to meet surging demand for AI processors.The firm declined to comment on the reported investment figure.:: TSMCTSMC is the world's largest contract chipmaker and a key supplier to companies such as Nvidia.It currently makes its most advanced processors in Taiwan.The new move puts Japan among the production sites for cutting‑edge chips used in high‑performance computing and AI servers.TSMC's earlier plans for the country had focused on less advanced technologies.“We believe this fab will further contribute to the local economic growth and most importantly, form a foundation for Japan’s AI business.” TSMC plans to start producing three‑nanometer chips at a plant in Arizona in 2027.The boom in AI has helped the chipmaking giant, Asia's most valuable listed company, to outshine its rivals.Wei said the firm is also in talks over a deeper collaboration with Japanese customers and partners.:: TVQJapan, which has already subsidized TSMC’s facilities there, is considering offering additional support...:: Fileas it moves to secure access to crucial chips for key industries like automotive and defense.