Intel denies TSMC’s trade secret leak claims against executive Wei-Jen Lo

Intel Rejects TSMC’s Allegations of Trade Secret Leak by Executive Wei-Jen Lo

Intel has firmly denied allegations made by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) that one of its executives, Wei-Jen Lo, leaked trade secrets after leaving the Taiwanese chipmaker. The US company said it found no basis for the claims and stressed its commitment to protecting intellectual property.

Intel Dismisses Trade Secret Claims

“Based on everything we know, we have no reason to believe there is any merit to the allegations involving Mr Lo,” Intel said in an emailed statement. The company added that it enforces strict internal controls and policies that prohibit the use or transfer of third-party confidential information. Intel also emphasised that it takes these commitments seriously and fully complies with international standards on data protection and intellectual property rights.

Executive’s Background and Industry Standing

Wei-Jen Lo, who previously served as a senior vice president at TSMC, rejoined Intel in October after retiring from the Taiwanese firm. He had worked at Intel for 18 years before joining TSMC in 2004, where he contributed to the development of advanced chip production technologies, including 5-nanometre, 3-nm, and 2-nm processes. Intel described Lo as a respected figure in the semiconductor industry, citing his integrity, leadership, and technical expertise. “Talent movement across companies is a common and healthy part of our industry, and this situation is no different,” Intel said.

TSMC Files Lawsuit in Taiwan

TSMC announced earlier this week that it had filed a lawsuit against Lo in Taiwan’s Intellectual Property and Commercial Court. The company claimed there was a “high probability” that Lo had used or disclosed confidential trade secrets following his move to Intel. Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs said it would cooperate to assess whether the case involves infringement of key technologies or breaches of the National Security Act. Lo has not yet commented on the allegations.

with inputs from Reuters