US President Donald Trump softened his stance on Taiwan’s semiconductor industry after TSMC announced a US$100 billion investment in the US.

Speaking at the White House, he acknowledged Taiwan’s leadership in the sector, attributing it to past US policies. “They stole it from us. They took it from us, and I don’t blame them. I give them credit,” he said.

He pointed to Intel’s decline after Andy Grove’s tenure, which allowed Taiwan to dominate the semiconductor market.

TSMC’s Mar. 4 announcement detailed plans for five advanced chip plants in Arizona.

Previously, Trump had threatened 100% tariffs on Taiwan’s semiconductor imports to boost domestic production. He criticized the Chips and Science Act, claiming TSMC’s investment was driven by tariff concerns, not government subsidies.

Despite the investment, TSMC will not receive US government support.

The move is expected to strengthen the US semiconductor industry, reflecting key shifts in global supply chains.

Recent TSMC developments