The semiconductor industry is bracing for a potential shake-up amid reports that the US government is pushing for Intel to spin off its manufacturing operations into a new entity, with TSMC participating in a joint venture. TSMC, which controls more than 60% of the global foundry market, would bring its technical expertise and manufacturing leadership to the venture. If realized, this move could alter the global semiconductor supply chain, reshaping alliances, competitive dynamics, and technological leadership.
Reports indicate that the Trump administration is considering revising incentive agreements under the CHIPS and Science Act (commonly referred to as the ‘CHIPS Act’), potentially affecting TSMC and GlobalWafers through delays in upcoming funding timelines.
Smartphone shipments in the Chinese market are expected to reach 78.6 million units in the fourth quarter of 2024, with a projected decline of 8.9% in the first quarter of 2025.
Japan Display Inc. (JDI) announced a major restructuring plan that includes ending LCD production, transitioning to OLED manufacturing through partnerships, and expanding into advanced semiconductor packaging with Taiwanese firm PanelSemi. The company will cease LCD panel production at its main Mobara plant in Chiba Prefecture by March 2026, consolidating operations at its Ishikawa plant. This strategic pivot aims to help JDI break free from chronic deficits caused by intense competition in the display industry.
The growing AIoT sector presents a stark departure from traditional supply chain models that Taiwanese chip manufacturers have long relied upon for mobile phones and PCs. This emerging market demands a fundamentally different approach to succeed.
Silitech Technology, a subsidiary of Walsin Technology, has invested JPY6.75 billion (approx. NT$14.4 billion) to acquire a 45% stake in FDK Corporation, a leading Japanese maker of nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. This strategic move marks Silitech’s entry into the energy and power products market, shifting from its previous focus on automotive and mechanical components.