As TSMC, the world's No. 1 foundry company, makes large-scale additional investments in the U.S., Samsung Electronics is also facing a situation where it is forced to consider additional investments. In particular, as U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of imposing tariffs on foreign semiconductors, there are growing concerns that price competitiveness could falter.

Currently, Samsung Electronics is paying keen attention to changes in its trade policy while continuing to pursue investment plans in the U.S. Samsung Electronics is building a 3·4 nanometer (nm) foundry plant by investing $37 billion in Taylor, Texas, and aims to operate it in 2026. In addition, the company has secured $4.75 billion in subsidies under the U.S. Semiconductor Support Act (CHIPS Act) through the announcement of investment in the Taylor plant. However, whether or not the Trump administration imposes tariffs is a key variable in its future moves. The issue is whether tariffs will actually be imposed and how tax rates will be set if so. Earlier, President Trump mentioned the possibility of gradually raising semiconductor tariffs from 25%. An official from the semiconductor industry said, "It takes at least trillions of won to build one semiconductor plant, and considering labor and operating costs, we need to carefully consider whether local production will be a real benefit."

However, if the TSMC announces a large-scale investment plan and the U.S. administration realizes the imposition of tariffs, Samsung Electronics' countermeasures are likely to change. Some predict that Samsung Electronics may restore its previously announced investment plan worth $44 billion. Samsung Electronics has previously lowered its semiconductor investment in the U.S. to $37 billion by adjusting its mid- to long-term investment plan to implement efficient investments.

For now, it is highly likely to watch the Trump administration's move while leaving the possibility of investment in the United States open. This is because the Trump administration has never made clear about semiconductor tariffs.

[Reporter Lee Sang-deok]