Taiwan’s economy minister, Kuo Jyh-huei, said that TSMC will need government approval for any overseas joint ventures. While the government will not interfere with the company’s decisions, such investments are subject to regulatory oversight.

Media reports suggest TSMC is in talks to acquire a stake in Intel, but neither company has confirmed this.

Kuo emphasized Taiwan’s semiconductor industry as the “sacred mountain protecting the country” and reiterated full government support for TSMC’s leadership.

The company is investing US$65 billion in new facilities in Arizona, which also requires government approval.

Regarding potential US tariffs on Taiwan due to trade imbalances, Kuo said the government is gathering information to negotiate better conditions with the US administration but did not provide further details.

Recent TSMC developments