TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) announced on Monday (Aug. 18) that Taiwan’s manufacturing sector output reached NT$4.8 trillion (US$150 billion) in Q2, marking a 14.09% year-on-year increase.
According to an MOEA report published on Monday, this marks the second consecutive quarter of growth, driven primarily by strong demand in AI-related industries.
The MOEA’s Department of Statistics stated that Q2 saw robust demand for artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, and cloud data services, which continued to boost the production capacity of the information electronics industry, according to CNA. The recovery in downstream demand for some sectors also contributed to the manufacturing output reaching NT$4.8 trillion, it added.
The department reported that the electronic components sector's output increased by 24.82% compared to the same period last year. The integrated circuit industry benefited from strong demand for AI and high-performance computing, leading to increased production in 12-inch wafer foundries.
The department added that the computer, electronic products, and optical goods industry experienced a surge in output to NT$410.5 billion, driven by the wave of AI demand that boosted orders for servers and other products.
Looking ahead, the department explained that the global market continues to face challenges from inflation and high interest rates. Additionally, the ongoing US-China tech dispute and geopolitical risks remain obstacles to economic recovery, it said.