US Grants TSMC Approval for Chip Equipment Exports to China

Strategic Licensing for Semiconductor Manufacturing

The United States government has granted Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC), the world's largest independent semiconductor foundry, an annual export license to import American-made chip manufacturing equipment to its facility in Nanjing, China. This decision, confirmed by TSMC in an official statement, ensures the continuity of operations and product shipments from its Chinese subsidiary.

Key Details of the Approval

The US Department of Commerce's decision allows TSMC Nanjing to receive US-controlled equipment without requiring individual licenses from American vendors. This annual license streamlines the export process and provides operational stability for TSMC's Chinese operations. The approval was announced on January 1, 2026, and marks a significant development in the complex landscape of international semiconductor manufacturing and export regulations.

Implications for Global Semiconductor Supply Chain

This approval demonstrates the delicate balance between US export controls and the global semiconductor supply chain. TSMC's Nanjing facility, which produces 28nm chips, plays a crucial role in the company's global production network. The license not only secures TSMC's operations in China but also highlights the interdependence of global semiconductor manufacturing.