Intel Hire Sparks Probe Into Ex-TSMC Executive’s Data Move

Taiwan has opened an investigation into whether a retired senior TSMC executive carried confidential semiconductor technology to Intel, after joining the U.S. chipmaker earlier this year. The case has drawn widespread attention in the global chip industry, where competition over advanced manufacturing is sharper than ever.

Local media reports this week identified the executive as Wei-Jen Lo, a key figure behind TSMC’s breakthroughs in 5-nanometre, 3-nanometre and 2-nanometre process technologies. He left TSMC this year after more than two decades at the company and joined Intel in October. Reports claimed he may have taken sensitive internal data before his departure, prompting the current review.

Taiwan’s High Prosecutors Office confirmed it had taken note of the reports and opened a preliminary case to look into the matter, though no formal complaint or charges have been filed. Officials said the review aims to understand whether any unauthorised technology transfer occurred and if national security laws may apply.

Economy Minister Kung Ming-hsin said on Wednesday the government is treating the matter seriously, stressing that semiconductor know-how is considered a core strategic asset. He noted that authorities would cooperate with prosecutors and assess whether existing controls on advanced technology protection are sufficient.

TSMC did not respond to requests for comment. Intel has also remained silent and has not publicly confirmed Lo’s appointment. A person familiar with the situation said Lo is currently working at Intel and reports directly to CEO Lip-Bu Tan.

Lo spent 21 years at TSMC, previously leading research and advanced technology development. Before joining TSMC in 2004, he had already worked at Intel for 18 years in multiple leadership roles, including as director of technology development and manager of its Santa Clara development facility.

The government said it would keep a close watch on whether the case could impact Taiwan’s semiconductor ecosystem or its relationships with major international customers. The review remains in its early stages as investigators gather information.