TSMC leads pushback in Taiwan against Biden’s chip data bid

TSMC is leads pushback in Taiwan against Biden’s demand for chip data, saying the companies need to protect client privacy. — REUTERS

A Biden administration effort to untangle global chip supply snarls is facing resistance from lawmakers and executives in Taiwan, complicating attempts to resolve the bottlenecks hurting industries from automobiles to consumer electronics.

The US Commerce Department late last month asked companies in the semiconductor supply chain to fill out questionnaires by Nov 8 seeking information pertaining to the ongoing chip shortage. While the request is voluntary, Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo has warned industry representatives that she might invoke the Defense Production Act or other tools to force their hands if they don’t respond.