TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Judicial authorities raided 49 locations in Hsinchu and northern Taiwan as part of a probe into alleged talent poaching and industrial espionage by 11 Chinese companies, Reuters reported Monday.
Prosecutors said 90 people were summoned for questioning, including suspects and other individuals. The operation was led by the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau, while the Hsinchu District Prosecutors’ Office said raids took place from March 16 through Thursday last week, CNA reported.
Officials said the targeted sites included offices linked to Chinese tech firms such as Yeestor Microelectronics Co., SG Micro Corp., and Aqrose Technology. Investigators suspect the companies operated in Taiwan without proper approval, per FTV News.
Authorities said the firms allegedly offered high salaries and incentives to recruit Taiwanese engineers and specialists. Targets included professionals in IC design, artificial intelligence, and visual inspection, many of whom worked in key industries at the Hsinchu Science Park, per UDN.
Prosecutors said some companies concealed Chinese funding while conducting research, development, and production activities in Taiwan. SG Micro Corp. was cited as one firm that allegedly infiltrated local companies and recruited workers without authorization, per PTS News.
Investigators said some firms used shell companies registered in third countries to bypass Taiwan’s restrictions on Chinese investment and recruitment. Additional companies under investigation in the same case include Shanghai-based Huaqin Technology Corp. and Anker Innovations Co.
Liberty Times reported that Taiwan’s high-tech industry plays a critical role in economic growth and national security. Authorities said existing regulations are designed to prevent foreign entities from accessing core technologies and undermining competitiveness.
Prosecutors warned Taiwanese professionals to remain cautious about overseas job offers, especially those promising unusually high pay. They said such offers may be part of efforts to obtain sensitive technology and expertise from Taiwan.
