TSMC's Soft Power: Crafting an America-Friendly Narrative

Huawei Mate 60, delays at TSMC's Arizona fab and how TSMC manages its reputation in the US and balances the complex tech, regulation and geopolitics in the global semiconductor showdown

TSMC has become a vital part of the U.S.‘ technology innovation narrative, and the planned TSMC Arizona fab is a touted success under the current administration. Semiconductor supply chains, innovation, and national security are the official talking points.

My debut op-ed for Financial Times Chinese last year unpacked the then newly passed CHIPS and Science Act. I focused on President Biden's claim that the Act would bolster national security by reducing dependence on foreign semiconductors and redirecting taxpayer investments into core technology areas. The CHIPS and Science Act is a significant move towards re-industrialization, reflecting a consensus among US policymakers and industry leaders to upgrade America’s existing infrastructure technology and to work with allies to make America self-sufficient again.

The passing of the CHIPS Act marked the beginning of TSMC's ascent to become a household name.

Fast forward a year, and TSMC is synonymous with America’s stronghold as a techno…