TSMC Aims to Offer Trade Secret Management System in US and Europe

TSMC, the world's largest dedicated chip foundry, is preparing to introduce a new trade secret management system in the US and Europe. The system aims to help companies manage and utilize their trade secrets effectively. TSMC has a market capitalization of $1.24 trillion and is traded on the NYSE. The company has impressive financial health, with a one-year revenue growth rate of 39.5%, an operating margin of 48.72%, and a net margin of 42.46%.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC), the world's largest dedicated chip foundry, is poised to introduce a new trade secret management system in the US and Europe. The system aims to help companies effectively manage and utilize their trade secrets, fostering a culture of innovation and enhancing security.

TSMC's trade secret ecosystem, centered on the Trade Secret Sustainable Intelligent Management Center (established in 2024), integrates artificial intelligence, automation, and cross-system synergies to protect innovations such as its 2nm and 3nm chip technologies [1]. The company's Intelligent Misappropriation Prevention & Monitoring system employs real-time analytics to detect anomalies, while its Green Trade Secret initiative aligns IP protection with sustainability goals [1].

The new system, developed over a decade, has been adopted by 20 local firms, including ASE Technology Holding Co., and is designed to help suppliers and partners manage their trade secrets more systematically [2]. This system integrates with HR and IT platforms and uses AI analytics to monitor projects, track joint development with outside partners, and identify standout talent [2].

The system's ultimate goal is to retain more technology within the company and reinforce TSMC’s competitive advantage. By 2024, TSMC logged over 610,000 cases onto its trade secret registration system, covering technologies and know-how [2]. The database is protected by information security processes and automatic encryption, ensuring that even if hackers obtain the data, they cannot read its contents [2].

TSMC's financial health is robust, with a one-year revenue growth rate of 39.5%, an operating margin of 48.72%, and a net margin of 42.46% [3]. The company's 2024 revenue hit NT$2,894.31 billion, with 3nm chips accounting for 22% of wafer sales and 64% global contract chipmaking share [3]. TSMC's strategic investments, including a $165 billion expansion in the United States, underscore its commitment to securing supply chain resilience [3].

The introduction of this trade secret management system reflects TSMC's commitment to innovation and security. For investors, TSMC's IP management is not just a safeguard—it is a strategic asset in an increasingly complex global landscape. The system's adoption by suppliers and partners will likely strengthen TSMC's ecosystem and supply chain security, positioning the company to maintain its dominance and deliver long-term value to shareholders.

References:
[1] TSMC Pioneers the “Trade Secret Sustainable Intelligent Management Center”, [https://esg.tsmc.com/en-US/articles/327]
[2] TSMC Market System Manage Trade Secrets, [https://www.aol.com/news/tsmc-market-system-manage-trade-085436939.html]
[3] TSMC Reports Strong Financial Performance at 2025 Shareholders’ Meeting, [https://www.tipranks.com/news/company-announcements/tsmc-reports-strong-financial-performance-at-2025-shareholders-meeting]