TSMC to Launch 3nm Chip Production in Japan in 2028
TSMC plans to mass-produce advanced 3-nanometre wafers at its second Japanese plant in 2028. The plant is expected to produce 15,000 12-inch wafers every month.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited is preparing to launch 3-nanometre chip production in Japan by 2028, according to a government filing from Taiwan released on Tuesday. The world's leading contract chipmaker is expected to begin equipment installation and mass production at its second Japanese facility as part of an expanded commitment to advanced semiconductor manufacturing in the region. This development follows remarks made by the company's leadership regarding the future of its international operations. > In February, TSMC CEO CC Wei said the company plans to mass-produce advanced 3-nanometre chips at its second fabrication plant in Japan, during a meeting with Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Under the revised production strategy, the second plant is slated to have a monthly capacity of 15,000 12-inch wafers using the sophisticated 3-nanometre process. This represents a pivot toward more advanced technology compared to previous plans for the site. TSMC had previously indicated that its total investment for both its first and second Japanese fabs would exceed $20 billion, aiming for a combined monthly output of 100,000 12-inch wafers. This production will encompass a range of technologies, including 40, 22/28, 12/16, and 6/7-nanometre processes. While local media reports have suggested the investment for the second plant could reach approximately $17 billion, the manufacturer has not officially disclosed specific financial figures for the individual project. The company's first facility in the country began volume production in late 2024. The regional operations are managed through Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing, a unit established in 2021 with support from Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation. The venture has since expanded to include minority investments from DENSO Corporation and Toyota Motor Corporation.
