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[News] TSMC’s 2nm Plan in Kaohsiung: Rumors of Constructing 5 Fabs


2023-12-28 Semiconductors editor

TSMC’s 2nm fab, strategically positioned between the Hsinchu Science Park and the Nanzih Technology Industrial Park in Kaohsiung Science Park, is rapidly taking shape.

According to Liberty Times Net, reports from the supply chain suggest that up to five fabs could be constructed in the Nanzih. The first of these fabs, currently under construction, is scheduled to begin its tool-in in January 2025.

Furthermore, there are indications that construction for the second fab may commence in the near future. There is also speculation that the third fab might be designated for the production of 2nm process, although this possibility has not been ruled out.

Chen Chi-Mai, Mayor of Kaohsiung city, mentioned that the progress of the first fab is proceeding as scheduled as expectations. Additionally, miscellaneous permits for the second fab were issued to TSMC in mid-December, 2023

While the semiconductor industry is still undergoing inventory adjustments, TSMC still continues its pursuit of advanced process over Intel and Samsung. Construction is underway for the new 2nm fab, with the steel structure completed for the Baoshan 2nm fab in the Hsinchu Science Park, including the cleanroom, is currently in progress.

According to Wayne Wang, the director-general of the Hsinchu Science Park Bureau, Baoshan Phase 2 will serve as one of TSMC’s production bases for 2nm process. Simultaneously, public construction projects and fab construction are proceeding, with the first plant set to tool-in in April next year, following the completion of workflow inspections.

Nanzih is also a primary production base for TSMC’s 2nm fab. The initial plan for the first fab was to produce chips using the 28nm and 7nm process. However, in response to geopolitical and economic changes, the decision was made to switch to the 2nm process.

Due to the different specifications on each semiconductor equipment, the Nanzih project began earlier this year, and faced challenges. However, the design was subsequently modified right off the bat, and re-started. For now, the progress is halfway through the whole project.

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(Photo credit: TSMC)

Please note that this article cites information from Liberty Times Net