Answered on : 2024-01-24
TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) and UMC (United Microelectronics Corporation) are semiconductor giants based in Taiwan with different strategies and a long-standing rivalry:
1. **Rivalry:** The rivalry between TSMC and UMC dates back to disputes over the independent foundry model's origin, with accusations of idea theft. This rivalry has persisted over the years [1].
2. **Market Expansion:** UMC has been more willing to enter new markets as part of its strategy, seeking opportunities globally [2].
3. **Overseas Expansion:** Both companies have been involved in overseas expansion strategies to tap into global markets [3].
4. **Competition:** TSMC's specialization in custom wafer manufacturing for chip designers has set it apart from UMC and disrupted the semiconductor market [8].
5. **Government Support:** The Taiwanese government played a strategic role in creating both TSMC and UMC through state investment funds [5].
6. **Global Market Share:** As of 2023, TSMC commanded a significant 56.4% of the global market share in contracted semiconductor manufacturing [7].
7. **Diversification:** Experts suggest Taiwan should broaden TSMC's geographic scope and semiconductor industry operations to ensure economic diversification [9].
Both companies have contributed significantly to Taiwan's semiconductor industry and continue to shape its future with their distinct strategies and competition [10].