Taiwan’s Vanguard International Semiconductor Speeds Up Construction of 12-Inch Wafer Fab in Singapore
Taiwan’s Vanguard International Semiconductor said on Friday (Apr 11) it will speed up construction of its 12-inch wafer fab in Singapore as geopolitical risks prompt customers to seek more options to make chips outside China.
Construction Progress
Construction of the factory, part of VSMC, a joint venture Vanguard unveiled last year with European chipmaker NXP Semiconductors, is on schedule and even slightly ahead, with mass production expected to begin in 2027, it added.
About Vanguard International Semiconductor
Vanguard specialises in legacy chips that go into products from cars to display panels. Chinese competitors have been aggressively building up manufacturing capacity for the chips in recent years.
Customer Demand
Vanguard chairman Leuh Fang told reporters some customers had also placed urgent orders due to hefty US tariffs, but added a lot of uncertainties could still affect full-year demand.
Export Market
The company exports less than 1 per cent of its chips directly to the United States.
Conclusion
Vanguard International Semiconductor’s decision to speed up construction of its 12-inch wafer fab in Singapore is a response to growing demand for chip manufacturing outside China. The company’s focus on legacy chips and its partnership with NXP Semiconductors make it well-positioned to capitalize on this trend.
FAQs
Q: Why is Vanguard International Semiconductor building a new factory in Singapore?
A: The company is responding to growing demand for chip manufacturing outside China due to geopolitical risks.
Q: What kind of chips does Vanguard International Semiconductor specialize in?
A: Vanguard specialises in legacy chips that go into products from cars to display panels.
Q: Who is Vanguard International Semiconductor’s partner in the new factory?
A: The company’s partner is European chipmaker NXP Semiconductors.
Q: How much of Vanguard International Semiconductor’s chips are exported directly to the United States?
A: The company exports less than 1 per cent of its chips directly to the United States.
