The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry certified a change to the production plan for TSMC's second factory in Kikuyo, Kumamoto Prefecture, paving the way for production of advanced semiconductors with 3-nanometer circuit line widths, the first of their kind in Japan.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry certified a change to TSMC's production plan for its second Kumamoto factory. As a result, production of advanced semiconductors equivalent to 3 nanometers, the first of their kind in Japan, is expected to begin. The second factory is located in Kikuyo, Kumamoto Prefecture.
Total investment in the plan is expected to be approximately $10.8 billion (approximately ¥1.7 trillion), and the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry indicated that it plans to provide up to ¥645.1 billion in support. Details of the financial support are expected to depend on future discussions.
TSMC estimates initial production of wafers with circuits formed on them at 6,000 wafers per month. Production capacity may be increased further depending on the level of government support.
The certification marks an important step toward establishing a production system for 3-nanometer semiconductors at TSMC's second Kumamoto factory, operated by the major contract semiconductor manufacturer. Attention is expected to focus on future developments involving the government and companies.