Taiwan Launches National Security Probe Into TSMC Trade Secret Leaks

Source: Cryptonews Original Title: Tokyo looks into TSMC secret leaks Original Link: Taiwan has initiated trade secrets investigations within its semiconductor industry under national security regulations, with prosecutors targeting Intel and Tokyo Electron rather than Chinese companies.

Background

The investigation marks a departure from Taiwan’s typical approach to protecting its chip technology, as both Intel and Tokyo Electron have been considered strategic partners of the island’s semiconductor sector.

Prosecutors have opened the probe to examine potential leaks of chip technology from Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world’s largest contract chipmaker.

The investigation falls under Taiwan’s broader national security framework designed to protect critical technology in the semiconductor industry, which represents a cornerstone of the island’s economy and strategic importance.

Key Implications

Details regarding the specific allegations against Intel and Tokyo Electron, or the nature of the suspected technology leaks, were not immediately available.

The probe comes as Taiwan continues to strengthen protections around its advanced semiconductor technology amid increasing global competition in the chip manufacturing sector.

The case signals a tougher stance on semiconductor talent and data flows, raising legal and geopolitical risk for global chip supply chains.

TSMC, Intel, and Tokyo Electron have not yet issued public statements regarding the investigation.