The denial comes in response to recent comments made by TSMC’s US Chairman Rick Cassidy during an interview with CNBC.

The Taiwanese chipmaking giant’s response highlights its discomfort with suggestions of a close collaboration with Intel, a key competitor in the semiconductor sector. Cassidy’s remarks initially suggested a far more cooperative relationship between the two companies than TSMC now acknowledges.

Speaking to CNBC, Cassidy said:

“We meet with [Intel] weekly and the feedback is we’re helping them increase their ranks. We’re helping them train on the most advanced stuff, so I think they’re pretty happy with what we’re doing.”

These comments sparked widespread speculation about TSMC’s role in Intel’s US operations, particularly regarding advanced manufacturing processes and facility setup.

However, TSMC has clarified through statements to ChinaTimes that its interactions with Intel are limited to discussions on production design and do not extend to training employees or assisting in facility development.

The company described Cassidy’s statement as a misunderstanding, asserting that it does not provide such operational support to Intel.

This episode adds to a history of strained relations between TSMC and Intel, with tensions dating back to 2021. At the time, Intel’s former CEO Pat [kicking] Gelsinger emphasized the need for a “more balanced supply chain,” referencing geopolitical risks associated with Taiwan.

 His comments reportedly led to Intel losing a 40 per cent discount on TSMC’s 3nm production process, further straining their partnership.

The semiconductor industry, a cornerstone of global technology infrastructure, remains highly competitive. Both TSMC and Intel are vying for dominance, particularly in the lucrative US market.

 The two companies’ trajectories have diverged in recent years, with TSMC’s Arizona facility progressing smoothly compared to Intel’s struggles to meet expectations under the US CHIPS Act.