日本語
한국어
Tiếng Việt
简体中文
Samsung’s massive $44 billion investment in a new chip fabrication plant in Taylor, Texas, is reportedly facing delays. Sources suggest the holdup stems from a lack of secured customers, raising questions about the plant’s future.
Customer Demand Woes Stall Texas Fab
Despite significant progress on construction, insiders told Nikkei Asia that Samsung might be unable to operate the facility due to insufficient demand for its output. Even with equipment installed, without confirmed buyers, the plant risks sitting idle.
The initial plan for the Taylor fab centered around the 4nm process node. However, the rapidly evolving semiconductor landscape has shifted demand, potentially rendering the original plan obsolete. An upgrade to 2nm is considered, but is resource intensive.
Massive Investment, Uncertain Future
Samsung began construction in 2022, initially investing $17 billion and later expanding the project to $44 billion with additional facilities and R&D. The project also received a $6.6 billion subsidy from the CHIPS Act.
Construction is nearing completion, with contractor Samsung C&T reporting approximately 92% completion as of March 2024. While initially slated for completion in April, regulatory filings indicate a revised target of October.
TSMC’s Success Highlights the Contrast
The situation differs significantly from TSMC, which is successfully producing 4nm chips at its Arizona-based Fab 21 for major US clients. TSMC’s capacity is reportedly sold out through 2027, even at higher prices than chips produced elsewhere.
TSMC dominates the global contract chip manufacturing market with nearly 68% market share, while Samsung holds a distant second place with 7.7%, according to Trendforce.
Challenges Beyond Demand
Establishing a new chip fabrication plant presents multifaceted challenges. Beyond construction, companies must build new supply chains, recruit skilled labor, and, crucially, secure buyers for the facility’s output.
The “equipping” phase, involving the installation of advanced equipment like EUV lithography machines, carries immense costs. Samsung’s chip-making division is also reportedly grappling with yield issues, further complicating the situation.
Geopolitical Headwinds Add Complexity
Geopolitical shifts have created turbulence for semiconductor manufacturers globally. While AI and data center markets remain strong, demand for consumer goods has softened.
Restrictions on high-end chip production for China have impacted Samsung’s capacity utilization, according to Trendforce analyst Joanne Chiao. Efforts by China to achieve semiconductor self-sufficiency add further complexity to the global market.
Samsung’s Commitment Remains
Despite the challenges, Samsung maintains its commitment to opening the Taylor Fab by 2026. While a specific timeline and details regarding equipment installation and customer acquisition remain undisclosed, operationalizing the plant is essential to receive CHIPS Act funding.
Delaying the opening indefinitely risks falling further behind TSMC and jeopardizing the billions already invested in the project. The race to dominate the semiconductor landscape continues.