Key Facts
• TSMC plans to build its second factory in Kikuyo Town, Japan.
• Initial construction start date was set for March 2025, now delayed to later in 2025.
• Traffic congestion in the area is cited as the primary cause of the delay.
• TSMC Chairman and CEO C.C. Wei personally visited the site, noting a 10-minute trip now takes an hour.
• TSMC confirmed no changes to the 2025 construction timeline.
• The company is working with the Japanese government and local authorities to address infrastructure issues.
• Local residents expressed understanding, citing their own experiences with traffic delays.
• Governor Kimura pledged swift action on traffic solutions, including both hard and soft measures.
• Kikuyo Town Mayor Yoshimoto reaffirmed support for the project, emphasizing collaboration with national and prefectural governments.
• TSMC aims to minimize inconvenience to residents while ensuring smooth project progress.
Summary
Taiwanese semiconductor giant TSMC has delayed the construction start of its second factory in Kikuyo Town, Japan, from March 2025 to later in the year due to severe traffic congestion in the area. Chairman and CEO C.C. Wei highlighted the issue after a site visit, where he experienced significant delays. Despite this, TSMC confirmed the project remains on track for a 2025 start. Local officials, including Governor Kimura and Mayor Yoshimoto, have pledged to address traffic concerns and continue supporting the project. Residents expressed empathy, sharing their own struggles with congestion. TSMC is collaborating with the Japanese government and local stakeholders to mitigate infrastructure challenges and ensure minimal disruption to the community.
