According to what reported by Wall Street Journal, Tsmc (Taiwan semiconductor manufacturing company) e Samsung Electronics are exploring the possibility of build new factories negli United Arab Emirates to meet the increasing demand for advanced chips, particularly for artificial intelligence (AI). TSMC executives have discussed a plant complex that could rival the most advanced facilities in Taiwan, while Samsung is also considering expanding its operations in the region. negotiations are still in the early stages and may face technical and financial obstacles. For the wsj the projects could cost more than $100 billion.
Tsmc and Samsung's projects
Discussions between TSMC and UAE authorities have intensified after executives from the Taiwanese company recently visited the country. The two companies are considering the possibility of establishing facilities in order to significantly increase global chip production, helping to drive down prices without compromising the profitability of manufacturers. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the projects could be financed through Mubadala, Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth vehicle, which reported an investment portfolio valued at around $300 billion last year.
The Taiwanese company confirmed that while it is open to constructive discussions, it has no new investment plans to announce at this time. Samsung declined to comment on the news, although its executives have recently held meetings in the Emirates.
The Emirates' ambitions
In recent years, the United Arab Emirates has shown a strong interest in becoming a regional and global hub for AI. UAE authorities see the new technology as a key strategy to reduce dependence on petrochemicals and diversify the economy.
The UAE's growing involvement in artificial intelligence is highlighted by the super-BlackRock launches $30 billion+ fund for AI infrastructure, with the participation of major companies such as Microsoft, Nvidia and Mgx. The latter, an Emirati company specializing in advanced technologies, could collaborate with OpenAI in future funding.
Another example of the commitment in the sector is the G42, an Emirati holding company specializing in the development of artificial intelligence, which recently received an investment of 1,5 billion dollars from Microsoft for the creation of Two AI development centers in Abu Dhabi. G42 is also OpenAI Partners, and its CEO, Sam Altman, recently proposed the Emirates as “regulatory sandbox” for AI, suggesting that the country can become a leader in the debate on the application of this technology.
US concerns
Technology agreements in the region are raising concerns in Washington, where there are fears that the United Arab Emirates and other Middle Eastern countries could become a conduit for advanced US AI technology to China, as investment accelerates.
TSMC and Samsung's interest in the Emirates is part of this geopolitical context, with potential implications for chip manufacturing and global technological innovation.
