TSMC Requires Suppliers to Exclude Chinese Rare-Earth Magnets from Chip Equipment

TSMC is reportedly instructing its suppliers to ensure chipmaking equipment does not contain rare-earth magnets sourced from China. This strategic decision aims to reduce the company's reliance on Chinese critical mineral supply chains, responding to ongoing export controls and geopolitical tensions impacting semiconductor manufacturing. Taiwan's government is also supporting initiatives to develop alternative domestic rare-earth sources.