GlobalFoundries is reportedly weighing a merger with Taiwan-based United Microelectronics. The combined entity would be headquartered in the U.S., with manufacturing and R&D investments aimed at securing American access to mature chips, countering risks from Chinese competition and geopolitical tensions in the region.

A report by OpenSecrets reveals that during the 2024 cycle, GlobalFoundries made political contributions of $80,411 and spent $1,180,000 on lobbying. Additionally, significant revolving door practices are noted, with a high proportion of their lobbyists having previously held government positions, raising concerns about undue political influence and accountability.

GlobalFoundries was fined $500K by the U.S. Department of Commerce for exporting $17.1 million worth of semiconductor wafers to SJ Semiconductor without the required licenses, a violation attributed to a data entry error.

GlobalFoundries was fined $500K for sanctions violations after unauthorized shipments were sent to an affiliate connected to a blocklisted Chinese firm, due to a data entry error affecting its transaction screening system.

GlobalFoundries was granted up to $1.5B in funding under the US CHIPS and Science Act to expand its domestic manufacturing capacity, including projects in New York and Vermont aimed at boosting automotive, defense, and consumer electronics production.

The Biden administration announced a $1.5 billion funding package, along with additional loan guarantees, to help GlobalFoundries expand its domestic chip production in New York and Vermont. The deal includes provisions for new manufacturing facilities, job creation, worker training, and extended childcare support for construction workers.

According to OpenSecrets data, GlobalFoundries allocated $2,490,000 for lobbying activities during 2023. This spending reflects an active engagement in influencing policy decisions through political lobbying without detailed disclosure of the targeted issues.

GlobalFoundries signed a 10-year, $3.1 billion contract with the U.S. Department of Defense to supply domestically manufactured semiconductors for aerospace and defense applications, reinforcing its trusted supplier status and bolstering national security through secure technology production.

GlobalFoundries released its 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report, highlighting its commitment to sustainable, ethical, and responsible business practices and emphasizing its role in promoting ethical manufacturing processes.

GlobalFoundries outlines its public policy priorities, including advanced manufacturing, resilient supply chains, environmental sustainability, and social equity. The statement emphasizes ethical lobbying practices by disclosing political engagement activities and explicitly stating that it does not contribute directly to political candidates.

GlobalFoundries' corporate responsibility page details its commitment to sustainable manufacturing, stringent emission controls, and a priority on a responsible, resilient, and secure supply chain achieved through ethical sourcing and partnerships with suppliers sharing similar social and environmental values.