Taiwan investigates major Nvidia and Intel supplier Unimicron over alleged relabeling of China-made circuit boards

Taiwanese prosecutors have launched an investigation into Unimicron Technology, a major supplier of printed circuit boards (PCBs) and advanced packaging materials used in high-performance computing, AI, and smartphone applications. The Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office, in partnership with officials in Guishan and Zhongli districts, is probing allegations that Unimicron relabeled China-made PCBs as products of Taiwan.

Fourteen executives and employees were questioned during searches of the company's headquarters and a manufacturing plant. Prosecutors have not yet announced charges but have stated they will continue gathering evidence. The investigation centers on suspected violations of Criminal Code provisions for document forgery and false product-origin markings.

A subsidiary manager was released on NT$15 million bail, while three others posted bail ranging from NT$300,000 to NT$5 million. Nine individuals were released without bail. Unimicron has stated it is cooperating fully with the investigation. The case is notable because Unimicron supplies crucial materials for advanced semiconductors, including Ajinomoto Build-up Film (ABF) substrates, which are integral to AI and smartphone chip manufacturing.

Nvidia and Intel are among Unimicron's customers, though it remains unclear if their products are part of the investigation. The allegations highlight concerns about supply-chain compliance and the potential impact of country-of-origin claims on customs, trade compliance, and sourcing decisions, particularly in the context of increased scrutiny of technology supply chains related to China by US officials.