讀後心得

The chairman of Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corp., Huang Chong-jen, stated that because its products are primarily not shipped directly to the United States, the impact of the 32% tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Taiwan is not significant. However, from the perspective of the overall Taiwanese industry, traditional industries are highly affected, especially downstream ODM/OEM manufacturers who are facing challenges, though some have the ability to pass on costs. Huang Chong-jen emphasized that while the current impact on the semiconductor sector is minimal, it still requires observation. Additionally, he believes that Trump's tariff policy could lead to inflation in the United States, which would be unfavorable for the U.S. public and future elections.

The President of the United States recently announced a 32% tariff on Taiwan, but projects such as semiconductors are temporarily unaffected. The chairman of Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation stated that for the company, which primarily focuses on mature processes, the impact is relatively small since its products are not directly exported to the U.S. However, from the perspective of Taiwan's industry, this move will have a significant impact on traditional industries, with downstream ODM/OEM manufacturers also facing severe challenges. Nevertheless, some companies may have the ability to pass on costs, emphasizing the need for the government and industries to explore countermeasures together.

He pointed out that from an overall macro perspective, the current impact on Taiwan's semiconductor industry is limited, but ongoing observation is necessary. Powerchip focuses on mature processes, with main products targeting consumer electronics, and since there are no direct sales to the U.S., the tariff impact is minimal. Further discussing traditional industries, these sectors typically have low gross margins and numerous employment opportunities; therefore, the impact will be significant, as not all companies can set up factories in the U.S. For ODM/OEM manufacturers, they still have the capability and opportunities to establish factories, which can relieve some pressure, but they are indeed facing major challenges.

Regarding concerns about whether Trump's strategy will prompt Taiwanese semiconductor companies to set up factories in the U.S., he believes it will not, as aside from TSMC which has strong pricing power, other companies find it difficult to realize factory setups in the U.S. due to high costs. As for whether small and medium-sized electronics companies will face a wave of bankruptcies, he thinks it still depends on the primary markets each company sells to. Currently, enterprises shipping to the U.S. primarily focus on servers and AI products, typically having the ability to pass on costs, so large-scale bankruptcies are unlikely; instead, American companies will be more affected.

When analyzing Trump's tariff policy, he stated that this policy is like a double-edged sword; increasing national debt could trigger inflation, ultimately placing the greatest burden on the American public, potentially having adverse effects on next year's midterm elections. In summary, the future continuity of Trump's tariff policy deserves further observation and consideration.