Taiwan Semiconductor Acts Early To Dodge US Export Curbs, Drops Chinese Tools From Chip Plants

Taiwan Semiconductor is removing Chinese chipmaking tools from its advanced plants to shield production from potential U.S. export curbs, according to Nikkei Asia. The move highlights rising geopolitical tensions as Washington enforces technology sanctions on Beijing while easing restrictions for U.S. companies. Nvidia secured approval to order 300,000 additional H20 AI chips from Taiwan Semiconductor, sustaining Chinese reliance on American hardware over domestic alternatives like Huawei. Taiwan Semiconductor is also delaying a second $20 billion Japan plant to accelerate its $165 billion U.S. investment plan announced in 2024 and 2025. Shares are up 18% year-to-date, outpacing the NASDAQ Composite Index’s 11% gains. TSM stock traded 0.45% higher premarket on Monday.