TSMC Reportedly Building 1.4nm Fab in Kaohsiung

TSMC is expanding its footprint in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, beyond the already planned three 2nm fabrication plants, with potential developments for sub-2nm technology. Recent reports suggest that TSMC is advancing its A14 process technology (14 angstroms, or 1.4nm) in Kaohsiung, as local authorities review land, water, and power requirements to support the next generation of semiconductor production.

While TSMC has not commented on market speculation, sources indicate that a third 2nm fab is being added in the Nanzih District. The Kaohsiung City government is actively working to ensure the necessary infrastructure, including water and electricity supply, is in place. The Nanzih site could potentially host up to five fabs, with industry insiders hinting that the fourth and fifth fabs might focus on A14 process technology, pending TSMC's official announcements.

The first 2nm fab in Nanzih is expected to begin mass production in 2025, promising a higher output value compared to 3nm technology. Sources close to the matter indicate that 2nm technology will be pivotal in applications such as high-performance computing (HPC), smartphones, electric vehicles, and autonomous driving, as TSMC continues to push the boundaries of semiconductor innovation.

Industry experts have also referenced TSMC's High-NA EUV roadmap, predicting that the A14 process will enter risk production in the first half of 2026, with mass production anticipated by the third quarter of 2027. Initially, this process will utilize ASML’s third-generation EUV equipment, the NXE:3800E.

Additionally, there are reports that TSMC's new facility in the Central Taiwan Science Park in Taichung may also incorporate sub-2nm process technologies, further solidifying TSMC's leadership in the global semiconductor industry.