Samsung Electronics Co. is expected to announce plans to build a $17 billion semiconductor factory in Central Texas, a massive investment against the backdrop of a global chip shortage that has tripped up industries as varied as toy manufacturers and automakers. The Wall Street Journal , citing unnamed sources, said the announcement could come as soon as Tuesday. Spokespersons for local and state officials declined to comment, but Texas Gov. Greg Abbott is scheduled to make an “economic announcement” this afternoon. Samsung is one of the world’s largest makers of electronics devices, as well as the tiny semiconductors that power them. The Texas plant would produce advanced chips for the company’s contract manufacturing, or foundry, operations. It is the latest chipmaker to deepen its U.S. investments at a time when manufacturers are desperate to increase output and policymakers are eager to incentivize that growth. The White House and Congress […]