TSMC emerges as world's top semiconductor maker

TAIWAN - Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) has become the world's largest integrated circuit (IC) chip supplier in terms of final market value of its sales, with its IC chip sales reaching an estimated US$54.6 billion last year. The sales figure surpassed those of IDM (integrated device manufacturer) giants such as US-based Intel and Samsung Electronics of South Korea.

Founded in 1987, TSMC has consistently scored a 40% increase in compound annual growth rate, with consolidated revenues at US$17.1 billion last year. TSMC is investing an additional NT$500 billion (US$17.02 billion) in its Gab 14 plant to expand production capacity and create 7,000 new jobs. TSMC has already  invested NT$4,500 billion in Fab 14, which accounted for 42% of overall revenue in 2012 (ATI).