Taiwan’s exports have reached a record high in September, driven by the relentless demand for artificial intelligence (AI) technology, according to government data. The island nation is a global powerhouse in the manufacturing of semiconductor chips, which are the backbone of AI technology.
In September, Taiwan’s exports rose by 30.5 percent from the previous year to $70.2 billion, as reported by the Ministry of Economic Affairs. This surge has been attributed to the strong demand for electronics and information and communication products, including chips. A ministry official confirmed that this is a monthly record, surpassing the previous high of $67.9 billion in December 2021.
The demand for AI technology has created a competitive market, with companies racing to acquire inventory and technology. According to Wu Meng-tao from the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research, “the world is in an AI arms race, and companies are competing not only on technology but also on inventory.”
Taiwan’s exports to the United States and Southeast Asian countries have seen significant growth, with a 40.2 percent and 57.5 percent increase, respectively. The country’s exports to China and Hong Kong also rose by 11.6 percent. As a leading producer of semiconductors, Taiwan’s dominance in the global chip production market has drawn attention from US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose tariffs on microchips.
The Taiwanese tech industry has benefited from the soaring demand for chips, with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) reporting a record net profit for the third quarter. TSMC’s clients, including Nvidia and Apple, are investing heavily in chips, servers, and data centers. The company’s success is a testament to Taiwan’s significance in the global tech industry.
The record-high exports highlight Taiwan’s critical role in the global economy, particularly in the production of semiconductors. As the demand for AI technology continues to grow, Taiwan’s position in the market is likely to remain strong. The country’s ability to meet this demand will be crucial in shaping the future of the tech industry.
