Trump Admin Demands Taiwan Shift 50% of Chip Production to US

The Trump administration has demanded that Taiwan shift 50% of its semiconductor chip production to the United States, warning that failure to comply may result in diminished protection from China. Commerce Secretary Lutnick stated, "95% of our chips are made 9,000 miles away… if you can’t make your own chips, how can you defend yourself?" He described the request as "herculean" and "impossible," while also noting that it is "not natural for Taiwan" but essential for "reasonable self-sufficiency."

The demand comes in the context of ongoing concerns about national security and supply chain vulnerabilities. The Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) has previously pledged $100 billion to expand its operations in the United States. However, experts have indicated that achieving full independence in chip production may take an estimated 10 to 20 years.

This development highlights the increasing tensions between the U.S. and China regarding technology and manufacturing capabilities. For further context on related coverage, see recent developments in politics.