August Launch: TSMC Kumamoto Plant's Office Building

According to recent reports from Japanese media outlets, the Kumamoto semiconductor wafer fabrication facility, operated by TSMC's Japanese subsidiary, JASM, is approaching its final construction phase. The inauguration of the office building section occurred in August, marking a significant milestone. Concurrently, both TSMC personnel and individuals from the SONY Group, who are co-partners in this venture and have undergone training in Taiwan, have initiated their relocation to the Kumamoto facility. They are actively engaged in equipment installation and preliminary operations.

As detailed by the Kumamoto Nichinichi Shimbun, the development of TSMC's Kumamoto plant, situated in Kikuyo-cho Haraizu within Kumamoto Prefecture, is now nearing its ultimate stages. The office facilities commenced operations in August, and a steady influx of TSMC employees is observed in Kumamoto. Plans remain on course for the wafer fabrication plant to conclude construction by year-end, with preparations proceeding diligently. The overarching objective is to commence production activities by the end of 2024.

Chairman Liu Deyin of TSMC underscored in a press conference held in July that the Kumamoto wafer fabrication plant adheres to the established timeline, with the pivotal production phase expected to begin by the close of 2024. Concerning the office complex already in operation, employees are anticipated to transition into their new workspace between August and late September. Approximately 600 TSMC personnel from Taiwan, along with their families, are anticipated to make Kumamoto their new home. Furthermore, around 200 employees from SONY Group, who completed training in Taiwan, are gradually returning to Japan.

The report highlights TSMC's intention to temporarily redeploy around 400 employees from Taiwan, along with 350 family members, to Kumamoto. This represents an approximately 20% increase compared to the original projection. It is worth noting that 60% of Kumamoto wafer fabrication plant employees are expected to reside in Kumamoto City, while an additional 30% will find homes in Kikuyo-cho, with the remaining 10% residing in Goshi City and Otsu-cho. Meanwhile, the 125 recent graduates who joined in April 2023 are currently undergoing training in Taiwan. Notably, the envisioned workforce for the Kumamoto wafer fabrication plant remains consistent with the original plan, at around 1,700 employees.