Taiwan has suspended chip export restrictions it imposed on South Africa earlier this week, signaling unease over using its semiconductor industry as leverage in diplomatic disputes.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs said Thursday it would halt implementation of the curbs, following consultations with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “After discussion with the Foreign Ministry, we have decided to suspend the release of this announcement,” the ministry said in a statement sent to reporters via the Line messaging app.
On Tuesday, Taipei had moved for the first time to unilaterally impose semiconductor export controls on another country, targeting South Africa over actions it said undermined Taiwan’s “national and public security.” The measure was widely seen as a response to Pretoria’s growing alignment with Beijing, which demands its partners downgrade or sever official ties with Taiwan.
The abrupt suspension highlights Taipei’s dilemma over deploying its critical semiconductor sector — a cornerstone of the global tech supply chain — as a diplomatic tool. Analysts say that while the move underscored Taiwan’s frustration with South Africa’s stance, the rollback suggests concerns over setting a precedent that could rattle international markets and complicate Taipei’s broader foreign policy strategy.
