2026.06.0908:12:50UTC+00Taiwan Trade Surplus Exceeds Forecasts

Taiwan’s trade surplus widened to USD 17.9 billion in May 2026 from USD 12.6 billion a year earlier, beating market expectations of USD 15.2 billion. Exports jumped 51.7% year-on-year to USD 78.5 billion, largely supported by robust shipments of information, communication and audio-video products (up 75.2%), electronic components (up 56%), and machinery (up 22.7%). By destination, exports rose markedly to the US (47.9%), Mainland China and Hong Kong (35.4%), and ASEAN countries (90.8%).

Imports also surged, climbing 54.9% to a record USD 60.6 billion, driven by strong demand for electronic components (up 66.9%), information, communication and audio-video products (up 118%), and mineral products (up 70.2%). Import growth was particularly strong from Mainland China and Hong Kong (48.4%), ASEAN countries (123.6%), and South Korea (73.3%).

Over the January–May period, the trade surplus reached USD 85.2 billion, with exports up 48.7% and imports rising 37.8% from a year earlier.