Samsung’s push into advanced semiconductor fabrication in the U.S. is gaining momentum, with test operations of EUV lithography equipment set to commence at its Taylor plant in Texas by March. The move marks a critical step toward mass-producing next-generation 2nm GAA wafers on American soil, though full-scale manufacturing won’t begin until mid-2026.
The Korean tech giant has deployed 7,000 workers on-site to expedite construction and ensure compliance with local regulations, including the recent application for a Temporary Certificate of Occupancy (TCO). The plant, spanning 4.85 million square meters—larger than Samsung’s existing Pyeongtaek and Hwaseong facilities—is designed to eventually accommodate up to 10 production lines, though its initial focus will be on testing EUV equipment for etching and deposition processes.
Despite the financial burden of acquiring ASML’s high-end EUV machines—each costing an estimated $500 billion won ($339.3 million)—Samsung is committed to ramping up yields, which are currently around 50%. The company aims to turn its foundry business profitable by 2027, though it continues to face deficits, including a $680 million loss in the third and fourth quarters of 2025. The Taylor plant’s strategic importance is further underscored by its role in manufacturing Tesla’s autonomous driving chips (AI5 and AI6), following the two companies’ $16.5 billion partnership.
While Samsung has not confirmed plans to produce Exynos 2600 chips at the facility, the plant’s infrastructure and EUV capabilities suggest it could become a critical asset for future SoC manufacturing in the U.S. The transition from 4nm to 2nm GAA production also presents an opportunity for Samsung to compete more aggressively with TSMC, which has shown no immediate plans to bring its most advanced processes to American soil.
The Taylor plant’s eventual capacity of 50,000 wafers per month aligns with Samsung’s long-term vision to establish the U.S. as a leader in semiconductor innovation, though challenges remain in balancing cost, yield, and global competition. With 10 plants potentially in development on the site, the facility could redefine Samsung’s foundry strategy—if execution meets its ambitious timeline.
