Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) plans to mass-produce 3-nanometer chips at its facility in Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan, Chairman and CEO C.C. Wei (魏哲家) told Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Thursday. Wei said the move would boost the local economy and serve as a foundation for Japan’s artificial intelligence industry. 

According to reports by Japan’s Yomiuri Shimbun and Kumamoto Nichinichi Shimbun, the project would mark the first domestic production of 3-nanometer chips in Japan. During a meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office, Wei expressed confidence that the new investment would drive regional growth and strengthen Japan’s position in advanced technology.  

Takaichi called the plan “exciting” and said the government is prepared to offer support. She emphasized that investments promoting crisis management and economic growth are national priorities, and highlighted AI and semiconductors as “key strategic fields.”  

TSMC had originally planned to produce 6- to 12-nanometer chips at its second plant in Kikuyo, Kumamoto, operated by subsidiary Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing. The upgrade to 3-nanometer technology will raise equipment investment from US$12.2 billion to US$17 billion. The company is finalizing details of the plan and is in discussions with Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry over related support measures.