Taiwan’s export orders are set to hit record levels in 2025, potentially surpassing $700 billion, driven by robust global demand for semiconductors, AI applications, and high-performance computing technology, the Ministry of Economic Affairs announced on Thursday.
In October 2025, Taiwan’s export orders rose 25.1% year-on-year to $69.37 billion, marking the 10th consecutive month of growth despite concerns over U.S. tariffs and ongoing geopolitical risks. Although the increase slightly trailed analysts’ forecast of 28.2%, it underscores strong momentum in the island’s technology sector, which is a bellwether for global tech demand.
AI and Semiconductor Demand Driving Growth
The surge in export orders is largely fueled by chips and technology products from Taiwan, home to the world’s largest contract chipmaker, TSMC (2330.TW), and other leading tech companies. These exports are critical in powering artificial intelligence systems, data centers, and high-performance computing infrastructure worldwide.
For November, the ministry projected export orders to increase between 27.6% and 31.4% year-on-year, reflecting continued strength in technology and electronics shipments ahead of the year-end peak season in Western markets.
Regional and Product-Specific Insights
- Telecom products: Export orders up 28.4% YoY in October.
- Electronic products: Orders surged 35.9% YoY.
- Orders from the U.S.: Up 32.1%, following a 40.2% increase in September.
- Orders from China: Increased 9.8%, slightly below September’s 11.6%.
- Orders from Europe: Rose 13.6%.
- Orders from Japan: Increased 14.8%.
These figures demonstrate Taiwan’s diversified export markets, with strong growth across key regions despite external uncertainties such as global trade policies, U.S. tariffs, and geopolitical tensions.
Trade Policy and Geopolitical Considerations
The U.S. has imposed a temporary 20% tariff on Taiwan exports, which the Taiwanese government continues to negotiate for more favorable rates. Despite this, the country’s technology sector has remained resilient, driven by emerging AI applications, advanced computing, and strong holiday-season demand in Western markets.
The ministry emphasized that new technological applications in AI, telecom, and electronics are expected to sustain export momentum through the fourth quarter and into 2026, supporting Taiwan’s continued role as a global hub for semiconductor and technology exports.
Conclusion
Taiwan’s export outlook for 2025 highlights the island’s critical position in the global tech supply chain, particularly in semiconductors and AI-related products. With export orders poised to exceed $700 billion, the country’s technology and electronics sectors are set to remain key drivers of global innovation and economic growth, even amid trade uncertainties and geopolitical challenges.
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