TSMC Reaffirms Mature Node Strategy Amid Reports of 28nm Capacity Reduction

Market rumors recently suggested that TSMC is prioritizing advanced nodes at the expense of its 28nm capacity, potentially benefiting competitors such as UMC and Vanguard International Semiconductor (VIS). In response, TSMC reiterated today that its strategy for mature process technology remains unchanged. The company emphasized its commitment to optimizing product portfolios within mature nodes while focusing on higher value-added and strategic markets.

Industry speculation indicated that TSMC’s monthly 28nm wafer starts allegedly dropped from approximately 200,000 units early this year to 150,000 in June, purportedly due to a reallocation of capacity toward silicon interposers. TSMC clarified that it continues to optimize capacity allocation to ensure sufficient supply to support customer growth.

During its April earnings call, TSMC highlighted that it is actively expanding mature node capacity. Notable projects include the JASM fab in Japan, dedicated to image sensors, and the ESMC facility in Germany, which focuses on automotive and industrial applications.