TSMC, the Taiwanese semiconductor giant, has denied claims of assisting Intel in establishing its US-based facilities. This clarification follows statements made by TSMC's US Chairman, Rick Cassidy, in an interview with CNBC, where he mentioned that the company was helping Intel weekly with "advanced process" manufacturing and training.

Cassidy’s remarks hinted at a close collaboration between the two companies, sparking rumors about TSMC’s involvement in Intel’s operational strategies. "We meet with [Intel] weekly and the feedback is we’re helping them increase their ranks," Cassidy stated, suggesting a significant role in Intel's advancements.

However, TSMC has now labeled these interpretations as a "misunderstanding." In a follow-up report by ChinaTimes, the company emphasized that their interactions with Intel were limited to production design discussions and did not extend to aiding the setup of Intel's US facilities.

This clarification reflects the competitive tension between the two semiconductor leaders. Intel and TSMC have a long-standing rivalry, amplified by geopolitical concerns and the global semiconductor race. In 2021, Intel’s former CEO, Pat Gelsinger, criticized reliance on Taiwan’s supply chain, implying a need for diversification. This statement led to strained relations, including Intel losing a 40% discount on TSMC's 3nm production.

The rivalry is further fueled by US CHIPS Act subsidies, which favor Intel as a larger recipient. Despite this, Intel has struggled to meet expectations, whereas TSMC’s Arizona facility is progressing steadily, potentially shifting the competitive balance in TSMC’s favor.

Amid these developments, TSMC remains cautious about maintaining any affiliations with competitors. Its strategic focus on its own projects and facilities highlights the high stakes in the semiconductor industry, where any perceived partnership can influence market perceptions and competitive dynamics.

As the US semiconductor sector becomes increasingly pivotal, the interplay between TSMC and Intel will remain a focal point. Both companies are vying for dominance in a rapidly evolving market, underscoring the importance of clarity in corporate communications and strategies.

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