TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The government did not face any pressure from the US regarding TSMC’s investment deal in Arizona, President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said at a press conference on Thursday.

TSMC announced on Monday it will invest another NT$3.29 trillion (US$100 billion) to build three more chip fabs, two advanced packaging facilities, and an R&D center built in Arizona. 

TSMC CEO C.C. Wei (魏哲家) has already explained the company’s strategic expansion is necessary for its future growth, the president said. 

Lai thanked Wei for updating the government about TSMC’s investment plans in the US. He said every strategic move by TSMC enhances its competitiveness and creates opportunities for Taiwanese suppliers to expand internationally. This fosters greater economic growth for Taiwan, he added.

Lai said that even with three new fabs abroad and the completion of 11 fabs in Taiwan, it would still be insufficient to meet customer needs.

The president reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fully support TSMC’s domestic expansion by ensuring it has the land, water, electricity, manpower, and talent required.

TSMC has already finished one of three planned fabs in Arizona. It employs more than 3,000 people on 1,100 acres of land and has been operating since late 2024.