Overview

• Project Crystal Land is envisioned as a sprawling industrial complex to produce AI-powered robots and chips modeled on China’s Shenzhen manufacturing hub.
• SoftBank has initiated discussions with US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and state officials over tax breaks for companies investing in the site.
• TSMC, which is already investing $165 billion in US fabs, and Samsung have been sounded out for participation though their commitments remain unconfirmed.
• The venture’s estimated $1.3 trillion cost hinges on securing partnerships with big tech firms and regulatory support.
• SoftBank’s $23 billion cash reserves and a recent $4.8 billion sale of its T-Mobile US stake, along with planned investments of up to $30 billion in OpenAI, strengthen its funding base.