TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s drone exports topped US$100 million (NT$3.15 billion) in the first quarter of 2026, already beating the sector’s total export value for all of last year.
Exports of complete drones reached US$115.85 million from January to March, compared with US$93.42 million in 2025, per CNA.
The Czech Republic accounted for the largest share of Taiwan’s first-quarter drone exports, buying about US$100 million worth of complete drones. Poland, Taiwan’s top drone market last year, bought about US$11.75 million in the same period.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs said Taiwan’s drone industry has benefited from years of work by local companies to build overseas markets, per the report. It said demand has also grown for suppliers outside China, with Taiwanese companies gaining recognition in Europe and the US for reliable components.
Central and eastern Europe have become key markets as governments respond to the war in Ukraine, the ministry said. The Czech Republic, Poland, and Lithuania have increased demand for dual-use drones while raising defense budgets and seeking “non-red supply chains,” per the report.
The ministry said Taiwanese companies are well placed in areas such as propulsion systems, communications modules, and airframes. It added that the government will keep fostering ties with central and eastern Europe through trade shows, corporate matchmaking, and memorandums of understanding, per the report.
