Published columns
Who Paid the Recruiter? Taiwan's Migrant-Worker Fee Rules and the U.S. Chip Supply Chain
Taiwan caps what brokers may charge migrant workers. A U.S. trade deal, signed but not yet in force, would bar worker-paid recruitment fees in manufacturing.
Open column →EmploymentOn Call at the Fab: Taiwan Working-Hour Rules for a U.S. Vendor's Field Engineers
Field engineers a U.S. equipment vendor employs in Taiwan work under the Labor Standards Act: eight-hour days, 46 overtime hours a month, no exempt category.
Open column →TaxU.S.–Taiwan Chip Investment: Royalties, Fees and the Treaty Gap
U.S. chip suppliers face Taiwan withholding on royalties and service fees while tax relief bills remain pending. Contract terms shape the cost of expansion.
Open column →Litigation & disputesTrade Secret Litigation in Taiwan: Injunctions, Evidence and Damages
U.S. chip firms can seek civil relief in Taiwan without a criminal conviction. Interim orders, evidence preservation and confidentiality need distinct showings.
Open column →Company setup & investmentTaiwan’s Export Entity List and the U.S. EAR: Two License Questions for One Shipment
Since June 2025, exports from Taiwan to Huawei, SMIC and other listed entities need Taiwan permits. The permits do not resolve U.S. EAR licensing requirements.
Open column →Company setup & investmentTSMC Arizona: What the U.S. Award and Taiwan Approval Actually Cover
TSMC Arizona's CHIPS award, Taiwan investment approval and technology rules have different scopes, with distinct implications for U.S. suppliers and partners.
Open column →Litigation & disputesMicron’s Taiwan Dispute: Trade Secrets, Employees and Proof
Micron’s DRAM dispute had different outcomes for UMC, Fujian Jinhua and individuals. Taiwan’s record shows why access controls and proof of prevention matter.
Open column →Taiwan entry and staffingSemiconductor Component Companies Entering Taiwan: How to Assess a Subsidiary, Branch, or Agent
Semiconductor materials, components, and equipment firms should map Taiwan contracts, inventory, and staffing before choosing a subsidiary, branch, or agent.
Open column →