GlobalWafers, based in HSINCHU, Taiwan, confirmed on Friday that its investments in the United States were on track, as the company had not been informed of any alterations to the agreed subsidies under the U.S. CHIPS Act.
The U.S. Commerce Department announced in December a finalized $406 million in government grants for projects in Texas and Missouri to boost silicon wafer production in the United States.
Sources familiar with the matter have indicated that the new U.S. administration led by President Donald Trump is looking into the CHIPS and Science Act awards, potentially causing delays in semiconductor disbursements.
GlobalWafers stated that certain conditions under review by the CHIPS Program Office do not align with Trump's executive orders and policies, but the company has not received direct notification from Washington regarding changes to the award terms.
CEO Doris Hsu reiterated in Hsinchu, Taiwan, that they have not been formally informed of any impending modifications to the CHIPS Act. However, she emphasized that should any modifications occur, the company would need to reassess its future investments.
Hsu pointed out that despite hypothetical scenarios, their current course remains unchanged until any official notifications are received. GlobalWafers also secured contracts valued at $406 million.
Acknowledging pending milestones, Hsu emphasized that funding from the United States hinges on meeting these requirements first. She affirmed that the company's U.S. expansion plans, spanning three plants nationwide, are ongoing.
Regarding potential U.S. import tariffs, Hsu mentioned that GlobalWafers is well-prepared due to its established U.S. presence, comprising three factories, and global operations.
"This provides us with more strategies to cope with potential tariff impacts," she noted.