보고서에 따르면 TSMC는 중국의 규제에 대응하기 위해 희토류를 사용하지 않는 장비를 검토하고 있다.

Taiwan's TSMC is exploring alternatives to rare-earth components in its factory equipment, according to three people familiar with the matter who spoke to the news agency Reuters. The initiative aims to reduce the risk of disruption from Beijing's export controls on rare-earth materials.

China last year placed certain rare-earth materials, magnets, and related processing technology under export controls, requiring licences. Rare-earth magnets are commonly used in the motors of industrial equipment, including the machinery in highly automated factories like those operated by TSMC.

A shortage of these specialised parts could disrupt chip production for customers in the smartphone, AI system, data centre, and defence supply chains. Three industry executives briefed by the company said TSMC has surveyed suppliers about using rare-earth-free motors in factory-automation equipment.

One of the executives indicated that concerns about potential supply disruptions from China are driving the effort. Two sources added that the discussions are currently at an early stage and have not yet led to a widespread rollout of rare-earth-free equipment.

TSMC's efforts align with statements from the United States and Taiwan about reducing reliance on Chinese rare-earth and critical-mineral supply chains. Raymond F. Greene, director of the American Institute in Taiwan, said in June that the United States is collaborating with Taiwan and other partners to develop alternative supply sources and enhance processing capacity.

Taiwan's Economy Minister Kung Ming-hsin stated in February that the government would support the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) in developing rare-earth technologies. Plans include establishing a pilot production line within three years, with the aim of meeting an estimated 50 per cent of Taiwan's domestic demand.

US officials have engaged ITRI in discussions about diversifying critical-mineral supply chains, according to a person at a US-based think tank. ITRI confirmed that it is working with Taiwan's Ministry of Economic Affairs on a rare-earth project.