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TSMC's Second Kumamoto Factory Rapidly Transitions to Equipment Installation for Advanced Processes
Wednesday, November 26, 2025 at 08:11 PM
Construction machinery is reportedly being removed from TSMC's second factory site in Kumamoto, Japan, as the project shifts to installing equipment for advanced process production just a month and a half after the start of construction, according to the Nikkei.
Context
TSMC's second Kumamoto factory in Japan has shown a remarkably swift transition, moving from initial civil works to equipment installation approximately 1.5 months after construction began in October. By early December, heavy machinery had largely departed the site, signaling an accelerated progression. This rapid development is significant as TSMC is reportedly considering upgrading the planned advanced nodes from 6/7nm to 4nm to meet growing demand for AI semiconductors.
The first Kumamoto fab currently processes about 55,000 300-mm wafers per month, and with the second facility, the combined site capacity is projected to exceed 100,000 wafers per month. The total investment in the Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing (JASM) site is estimated at roughly US$20 billion. While the initial target for the second fab's ramp-up was late 2027, some reports indicate potential delays towards 2029. This strategic expansion underscores TSMC's commitment to diversifying its manufacturing footprint and enhancing its capacity for cutting-edge chip production.
Sources (21)
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