Impact of Kumamoto Earthquake on Taiwanese Firms: TSMC Evacuates, MOEA Confirms Advantech, Delta Electronics Unharmed

A powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu, Japan, in the afternoon of April 28. The maximum seismic intensity reached level 7, and a tsunami advisory was briefly issued, shaking the local semiconductor supply chain and drawing widespread attention. Regarding concerns over potential damage to Taiwanese manufacturers and their supply chains, Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) promptly issued a statement, emphasizing that companies including Advantech, Delta Electronics, Yoken, and Tokyo Star reported no direct impact on their facilities. Additionally, TSMC (2330-TW) responded externally, confirming that it has initiated emergency evacuation procedures for all personnel, both indoors and outdoors, and is currently conducting personnel and facility checks.

The MOEA stated that, based on initial reports from the Economic Division in Fukuoka, Taiwanese enterprises operating in Kumamoto—including Advantech, Delta Electronics, Yoken, and Tokyo Star—have confirmed the safety of all personnel, with no immediate disruption to operations.

Meanwhile, TSMC's (JASM) Japanese facility, a focal point for market attention, faced its first major seismic test. TSMC confirmed that due to the earthquake exceeding the facility's operational evacuation threshold, the plant swiftly activated emergency response protocols, organizing the evacuation of all employees both indoors and outdoors. The company is now conducting a comprehensive assessment of potential facility damage.

The MOEA emphasized that it will continue to closely monitor the disaster situation and developments in Japan, actively supporting and assisting Taiwanese businesses operating locally as needed.