TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s industrial and manufacturing production indices grew for the 14th consecutive month, according to an economics ministry press release published Friday.The manufacturing index rose 23.68% to 108.37, while the broader industrial index climbed 22.31% to 107.51 – both record highs for April, per CNA. Integrated circuit, IC, production jumped 44.43% year-on-year, setting a new monthly record.From January to April, industrial production rose 14.31%, with manufacturing up 15.22%. The ministry projects May’s manufacturing index to rise between 11% and 15.1% year-on-year.MOEA Statistics Department Deputy Director-General Huang Wei-chieh (黃偉傑) said postponed US tariffs triggered an inventory rush among clients, though some companies now see the buildup easing. Still, strong AI-related orders continue to fuel overall growth.Electronic components saw its index rise 36.48% to a record 118.53, driven by demand for AI chips and high-performance computing. The IC index hit 133.63, with strong output in wafer foundry, packaging, testing, and design.Computer, electronics, and optical product manufacturing surged 47.15% to a record 176.06, thanks to robust cloud and smartphone component demand. High volumes of servers, communication devices, and lenses supported the gains.Traditional industries were mixed, with automotive and chemical sectors posting year-on-year declines. However, accelerated orders for car parts ahead of new tariffs helped cushion the drop.Base metals rebounded with a 1.25% gain, ending four months of contraction. Huang said rising demand for upstream materials like semiconductor targets and copper anodes led the recovery, though steel products remained weak amid global price competition.Despite lingering trade risks and geopolitical tensions, the ministry said it expects continued strength in semiconductor and server supply chains.May. 23, 2025 20:11Michael NakhiengchanhTaiwan News, Staff Writer (ICE TAIPEI)

Fonte notizia: Organi di Stampa - Taiwan News