Taiwan’s exports surged 69.9% year-on-year to a record high of USD 65.77 billion in January 2026, accelerating from a 43.4% increase in the previous month and far exceeding market expectations of a 51.9% rise. This was the strongest annual export expansion since January 2010, underpinned by robust demand across all major product categories.
Shipments of information, communication, and audio-video products jumped 129.8%, while exports of electronic components rose 59.8%. Exports of base metals and related articles increased 22.3%, machinery exports advanced 29.4%, and plastics, rubber, and related products grew 8.6%.
By destination, exports to the United States soared 151.8%, accounting for 32.4% of total shipments. This performance followed a recent trade agreement between the US and Taiwan designed to support American semiconductor production in return for lower tariffs. Other major markets also recorded strong gains, including Mainland China and Hong Kong (49.6%), ASEAN countries (61.8%), Europe (106%), Japan (37.2%), and Korea (96%).
