TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — German Trade Office Taipei said Thursday that 52.6% of German companies operating in Taiwan anticipate that US tariff policies could negatively affect their businesses.
The office conducted a survey in March among German businesses in Taiwan, focusing on the potential impact of the German federal election and US tariffs on their operations. The findings were released on Thursday, per CNA.
German Trade Office Taipei Chief Representative and Executive Director Eva Langerbeck said that 36.2% of German businesses in Taiwan are considering adjustments to their supply chains. She noted that 25% of these companies plan to strengthen collaboration with Taiwanese firms and diversify their export markets in response.
Langerbeck said most German businesses in Taiwan reported limited direct effects from the German election on their operations there. However, she noted that many companies expressed hope the new German government would strengthen economic and trade ties with Taiwan.
Langerbeck said that Taiwan plays a crucial role in global sectors such as semiconductors and precision machinery. Amid growing geopolitical tensions and economic instability, she noted that businesses are placing greater emphasis on reliability and stability, qualities she added that Taiwan offers.
Trade between Germany and Taiwan totaled NT$152.5 billion (US$5 billion) in this year’s first quarter, marking a 2% increase from the same period last year, according to the office.
Taiwan’s exports to Germany were led by information and communication technology products, electronic components, and transportation equipment. Imports from Germany primarily consist of chemicals, transportation equipment, and electronic components.
Taiwan’s imports from Germany rose 7% year-on-year in Q1. Notably, imports of optical and precision instruments, watches, and musical instruments saw a significant 55% surge compared to the same period last year.
The office said that Taiwan approved nearly NT$14.95 billion in investments in Germany last year, reflecting strong interest from Taiwanese companies in German market. It added that Walsin Lihwa’s acquisition of Germany’s Mannesmann Stainless Tubes shows that Taiwanese investment is expanding beyond semiconductors into other manufacturing sectors.
Langerbeck highlighted that Germany and Taiwan have complementary supply chains in semiconductor equipment and materials. She expressed hope that beyond the semiconductor sector, the two countries could deepen cooperation in areas such as aerospace, machinery, smart healthcare, and green energy.
