TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s drone exports reached NT$3.65 billion (US$115 million) in the first quarter, already exceeding last year’s NT$2.94 billion, the Ministry of Economic Affairs said Thursday.
The ministry said the Czech Republic, Poland, and the US were the top export markets, per CNA. Full-year shipments are projected to exceed NT$7.92 billion, reflecting strong global demand.
The growth follows a six-year, NT$44.2 billion drone industry plan approved in October, aimed at expanding markets, advancing technology, and strengthening industry ecosystems.
MOEA Industrial Development Administration Director-General Chiu Chiu-hui (邱求慧) said more than 267 companies are now involved in the sector, spanning system integration, flight control, and related fields, per Liberty Times. The government is also promoting a non-China supply chain through defense procurement to accelerate development.
Taiwanese firms have entered the US supply chain and expanded partnerships with Europe, the US, and Japan, CNA reported. Taiwan has also secured Green UAS certification from the Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International, boosting international market access.
Chiu said the strong first-quarter performance shows Taiwan is gaining a foothold in the global drone market. He added that policy support and global cooperation are expected to sustain growth.
