TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s industrial production index hit a record high for April, rising 14.16% year-on-year to 125.63, the Ministry of Economic Affairs said Tuesday.
The ministry said the computers, electronics, and optical products segment led gains, surging 85.40% year-on-year in April on robust demand for AI, high-performance computing, and cloud services, per Anue. Cumulative output for the first four months increased 21.13%, per CNA.
The electronic components sector also remained strong, rising 11.47% in April and 20.35% in the first four months, supported by full-capacity production across wafers, DRAM, IC packaging and testing, and chip design.
The AI boom also spilled over into the machinery sector, which grew 9.69% in April as semiconductor firms expanded advanced process and packaging capacity. The ministry said demand for semiconductor equipment and consumables used in chip manufacturing drove the gains.
Traditional industries showed mixed results. Basic metals rose 2.08% on restocking demand, but chemical materials and fertilizers fell 10.01% due to weak demand and maintenance shutdowns.
The automobile and auto parts sector declined 2.93% as customers placed cautious orders.
Looking ahead, the ministry said geopolitical and trade uncertainties continue to cloud the global outlook. However, it said rapid global investment in AI infrastructure is expected to sustain demand for Taiwan’s advanced semiconductor processes, high-end packaging, and server supply chains.
