Fact Check: In 2023, Bloomberg News reported that several Taiwanese companies were assisting Huawei in building infrastructure for chip plants in southern China.

Fact Check: "In 2023, Bloomberg News reported that several Taiwanese companies were assisting Huawei in building infrastructure for chip plants in southern China."

What We Know

In 2023, multiple credible sources reported that several Taiwanese technology companies were indeed assisting Huawei Technologies Co. in constructing infrastructure for a network of chip plants in southern China. This collaboration was described as "under-the-radar" and unusual, given the geopolitical tensions and Taiwan's historical stance on technology exports to China (Bloomberg, Taipei Times). The Taiwanese government has also opened investigations into specific firms accused of this collaboration, indicating the seriousness of the situation and the potential implications of these actions (Reuters, Nikkei Asia).

Analysis

The claim that Taiwanese companies are helping Huawei build chip plants is supported by multiple reputable news outlets, including Bloomberg and the Taipei Times. Bloomberg's report specifically highlights the unusual nature of this collaboration, especially considering the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China and the restrictions imposed by Taiwan on technology exports to Chinese firms (Bloomberg, Bloomberg).

The reliability of these sources is generally high; Bloomberg is a well-respected financial news organization, and the Taipei Times is a prominent English-language newspaper in Taiwan. Both have a history of accurate reporting on technology and international relations. However, it is important to note that the situation is fluid, and the political landscape can influence reporting. For instance, the Taiwanese government has been proactive in investigating these companies, which adds a layer of complexity to the narrative (Reuters, Nikkei Asia).

While some reports emphasize the potential risks and backlash from such collaborations, especially in light of U.S. sanctions against Huawei, the core claim remains substantiated by the evidence presented. The investigations into the companies involved further corroborate the seriousness of the situation and the potential legal ramifications for those firms (Taipei Times, Times of India).

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "In 2023, Bloomberg News reported that several Taiwanese companies were assisting Huawei in building infrastructure for chip plants in southern China" is accurate. Multiple credible sources confirm this collaboration, and the ongoing investigations by Taiwanese authorities underscore the significance of the issue. The context of U.S. sanctions and Taiwan's geopolitical stance adds complexity but does not negate the validity of the claim.

Sources

1. Taiwan probes four firms accused of helping China's Huawei
2. Key Taiwan Tech Firms Helping Huawei With China Chip Plants
3. Taiwan blacklists Huawei and SMIC - Taipei Times
4. Taiwan Imposes Technology Export Controls on Huawei, SMIC
5. Taiwan Blacklists Chinese technology company that is designated as ...
6. Taiwan to probe 4 firms accused of helping Huawei build chip plants ...
7. Taiwan to Probe Suppliers Helping Huawei With China ...
8. Taiwanese companies helping Huawei to build Chip plants - Bloomberg