Taiwan Rejects U.S. Proposal for 50-50 Chip Production Split

Published OCT 1

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Above: An AI Expo in Taipei, Taiwan, on March 26, 2025. Image copyright: Daniel Ceng/Anadolu/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

Taiwan owes its very survival to U.S. protection, yet it balks at a fair 50-50 split on chip production while pocketing billions in subsidies. To spurn America’s hand after siphoning off its industry is not strategic caution but sheer ingratitude — an ally demanding insurance without paying the premium, all while relying on U.S. lives to shield its immense wealth.

CNBC Tom's Hardware

Establishment-critical narrative

Taiwan is irreplaceable to America — home to 92% of the world’s most advanced chips, powering everything from iPhones to missile systems. No amount of money can quickly replicate its decades-old mastery or global supply dominance. To lose Taiwan would cripple U.S. industry, imperil security, and hand China economic leverage and strategic control of the Pacific.

The Heritage Foundation Medium

Pro-China narrative

Taiwan is merely reaping what it sowed. By tethering its fortunes to Washington’s whims, it drained its own talent, hollowed out its industry, and handed leverage to a partner that sees it as expendable. Having built its empire on America’s back, Taiwan now finds itself cornered.

China Daily South China Morning Post