Happy Wednesday from Taipei!

With yesterday’s Earth Day, it's a fitting moment to reflect on how sustainability touches many aspects of our day-to-day - whether through innovation, infrastructure, or international cooperation. We are always committed to supporting green solutions and fostering partnerships that promote responsible business practices. Fun fact: Our office building, the World Trade Center Taipei, was awarded the Taipei City Net Zero Leadership Excellence Award last year - a small but meaningful nod to ongoing ESG efforts here in Taiwan.

This week’s InfoBrief brings together a diverse set of updates and announcements. Our Top News section highlights the latest GTO Quick Facts, offering insight into bilateral trade trends from the first quarter of 2025. With a steady 2 percent year-on-year increase, German-Taiwanese trade continues to benefit from strong industrial complementarity. We’re also looking ahead to our Taiwanese-German Conference on Healthcare Applications, taking place on May 20, and the exclusive B2B meetings that will connect five leading German companies with local stakeholders. From biotech to medtech, this is a great opportunity to build new partnerships.

In our GTO News, we’re spotlighting two exciting opportunities to join our team: a full-time opening for a Finance & Controlling Manager and a paid internship in Media & Communications. Whether you’re looking to grow your career or just starting out, these roles offer a chance to work at the intersection of international trade and communication.

If you're planning your calendar, don't forget to check out our Trade Fair News section, which features upcoming highlights like Moulding Expo 2025 and our Saxony Semiconductor Delegation in June. Following the success of last year’s trip, this delegation will provide hands-on insights into Saxony’s investment environment and growing role in Europe’s semiconductor landscape.

We also include a new DIHK report on foreign direct investment trends, plus other updates from the GTO and recent news from Taiwan. As always, thank you for reading - and enjoy exploring this week’s edition.

Warm regards,

Bilateral trade between Germany and Taiwan reached USD 5 billion in the first quarter of 2025, marking a 2 percent year-on-year increase, according to Taiwan’s Ministry of Finance.

Taiwan’s exports to Germany totaled USD 1.7 billion, primarily consisting of information and communication products (USD 464 million), electronic components (USD 287 million), and vehicles and transport equipment (USD 190 million).

Imports from Germany amounted to USD 3.3 billion. Key imports included chemicals (USD 572 million), vehicles and transport equipment (USD 538 million), and electronic components (USD 522 million). Notably, imports of optical and precision instruments recorded a significant 55 percent year-on-year increase.

Stay tuned to our channels for more economic updates!

Cover photo: Travel mania/shutterstock.com

DEinternational Taiwan Ltd., the service unit of the German Trade Office Taipei, organizes a conference in the healthcare sector with a focus on pharmaceuticals and biotechnology, which will take place on May 20, 2025. The conference is part of a delegation trip of German companies to Taiwan which is funded by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action under the market entry programme.

Event Details 

• Date: May 20, 2025
• Venue: Illume Taipei
• Time: 9:30 – 16:00 (registration time: 9:00 – 9:30)
• Language: English

Agenda

The preliminary agenda can be found on our website.

As part of the Healthcare Applications delegation, we’re bringing 5 strong companies of German pharma and biotech to Taiwan. Don’t miss your chance to connect directly with industry leaders through exclusive one-on-one B2B meetings from May 21 to 23.

This delegation trip, funded by the Federal Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Action under the market entry programme, brings together cutting-edge players in drug development, medical packaging, coating technology, cell culture, and more:

🔹 BioMed X GmbH – Biomedical research & drug discovery
🔹 HWI pharma services GmbH – Formulation, analytics & regulatory support
🔹 PRIMACYT Cell Culture Technology GmbH – Liver-related research products & medical device testing
🔹 ROHDE KG – Hygienic coatings for healthcare facilities
🔹 Sensoplast Packmitteltechnik GmbH – High-precision closures & medical devices

Book your one-on-one B2B meeting now and explore partnership opportunities with Germany’s healthcare innovators.

B2B Meetings: May 21–23 (By appointment)

Learn more about the companies and secure your meeting slot!

Taiwanese-German Conference on Healthcare Applications
20.05.2025 | Location: Taipei

2025 German Riesling Night
12.06.2025 | Location: Taipei

At DEinternational Taiwan Ltd., we support companies in entering and growing in the Taiwanese and German markets. As Finance & Controlling Manager, you’ll take ownership of key financial processes, reporting, and planning while helping drive digitalization and process improvements across our organization.

Location: Taipei
Apply by: April 30, 2025
Apply to: Ms. Jessie Wu | wu.jessie@taiwan.ahk.de

Learn more about the position and application process on our website!

On April 8, our Chief Representative Dr. Eva Langerbeck visited Deputy Mayor Lo Ta-Sheng at the Net Zero Institute in Kaohsiung to discuss opportunities for cooperation between German companies and the city government.

Kaohsiung is transitioning from its legacy in petrochemicals and steel toward high-value industries like semiconductors, 5G, IoT, and AI — all underpinned by its ambitious goals in ESG, digitalization, and net-zero transformation.

The meeting took place at the Net Zero Institute, a key initiative launched by the Kaohsiung City Government to advance industrial decarbonization. Closely linked to TÜV Rheinland and other international partners, the Institute focuses on talent development and certification in carbon management — supporting businesses as they adapt to new regulations and prepare for Taiwan’s carbon levy system starting in 2025.

Together with Benjamin Keim, Managing Director of SMS Group GmbH Taiwan Branch, Adam Green, Managing Director of MAN Energy Solutions Taiwan Ltd., Liu Chien Hung, Managing Director of ifm electronic Ltd., Leo Yang, Managing Director of Würth Taiwan, and Dr. Jörg Polster, Director General of the German Institute Taipei, we explored how German technology can support Kaohsiung’s industrial upgrade, smart city goals, and energy transition.

We thank Deputy Mayor Lo for the warm exchange and look forward to future collaboration!

• May 6–9, 2025
• Stuttgart,Germany

• 42,000 sqm exhibition space
• 700+ international exhibitors
• 15,000+ professional visitors
• Covering key sectors: automotive, aerospace, electronics, medical, appliances and more

Join us for an exclusive journey to LEARNTEC 2025, Europe’s largest digital learning exhibition, and explore new opportunities in the global Ed-Tech market! This delegation offers:

• LEARNTEC Highlights: A curated tour of cutting-edge Ed-Tech innovations and professional forums
• Networking Opportunities: Meet local distributors, universities, and decision-makers
• Academic Exchanges: Visit German universities and research institutions to explore collaboration models
• Business Matching: Connect with European Ed-Tech companies to discover market strategies and potential partnerships
• Expert Insights: Attend lectures and high-level events to gain market insights and build international connections

Event Details

• Date: May 5–8, 2025
  
• Location: Karlsruhe, Germany

This is a unique opportunity to expand your Ed-Tech presence in Europe. Don’t miss out—register now!

For inquiries and registration, please contact Ms. Venus Peng.

LEARNTEC is a unique combination of convention and trade fair. It showcases IT-supported learning methods and technologies and best practices in life-long learning: imparting knowledge in companies, schools and higher education institutions. At LEARNTEC you will have the chance to meet highly qualified specialists from the e-learning and education sector in the same location over a concentrated three-day period. Almost all relevant providers of digital education and decision-makers from all business sectors and public institutions will be coming together here.h

For more information visit our website or contact Ms. Venus Peng.

The Smarter E Europe 2025 Booths are almost fully booked!

Smarter E Europe, the world's largest trading platform for the energy industry, will be held from May 7-9, 2025 at Messe München, Germany. Smarter E Europe unites four major exhibitions: Intersolar Europe, ees Europe, Power2Drive Europe, and EM-Power Europe. These exhibitions will cover renewable energy, batteries, and energy storage systems, charging equipment and e-mobility, as well as energy management and integrated solutions.

In 2024, Intelligent Energy Europe attracted more than 3,000 exhibitors showcasing a wide range of innovative products and nearly 110,000 professional buyers from around the world. More than 2,500 participants signed up for industry seminars and business events during the show, setting an unprecedented record for business exchanges.

In 2025 edition, German Trade Office Taipei also partners with TAITRA to organize the Taiwan Pavilion at Intersolar Europe in Hall A3. 9 Taiwanese companies have already confirmed their participation in the pavilion. We cordially invite Taiwanese companies in these industries to join us and step further into the European and international markets.   

If you are interested in exhibiting at The Smarter E Global Events, such as Middle East, India, Central and South America editions, please contact our colleague Mr. Pinchao Huang. We look forward to seeing you in Munich to explore the business opportunities of the future energies!

For more information visit our website.

Following the great success of last year’s Delegation to Saxony, we are excited to launch an enhanced version this June. Taking place during Silicon Saxony Day, one of Europe’s premier high-tech networking events, the delegation will offer in-depth insights into the investment environment and industry opportunities in Saxony for Taiwan’s semiconductor supply chain.

Highlights

• Field Check  – Gain firsthand insights into the investment environment and industry ecosystem in Saxony
• Investment Consultation – A comprehensive briefing session included group consultation and one-on-one meeting to address key investment concerns for Taiwanese companies.
• Joint Venture  – Opportunity to cooperate with local companies 
• Industry Connections – Engage with Saxony’s semiconductor ecosystem and leading enterprises

Date: June 16–19, 2025
Location: Dresden, Saxony, Germany

Interested in joining? Contact Ms. Venus Peng for more details. Spots are limited—register now!

From September 3–5, 2025, Asia Fruit Logistica will return to AsiaWorld-Expo in Hong Kong, bringing together industry professionals from across the global fresh produce sector. With more than 760 exhibitors and 13,000 buyers from over 70 countries attending in 2024, the event continues to be a key platform for businesses in fruits, vegetables, organics, logistics, and more.

The 2025 edition will feature expanded categories, including Smart AgriTech, Frozen Fruits & Vegetables, and Dried Nuts, reflecting the latest industry innovations and trends.

For more details, contact Ms. Venus Peng.

Are you ready to expand your microelectronics business in Taiwan, a global hub for cutting-edge semiconductor technologies? SEMICON Taiwan is the premier platform to connect with industry leaders and showcase your innovations. In 2024, the event attracted an impressive 85,000 visitors, 1,100 exhibitors, and 3,700 booths!

Our German Pavilion at SEMICON Taiwan 2025 will take place in TaiNEX Hall 1, 1F, from September 10 to 12.

Why exhibit with us?

• Prime booth location within the German Pavilion
• Fully equipped, walk-in booth setup for convenience
• Access to shared facilities, including a business lounge and Happy Hour for exhibitors and buyer.
• Boosted visibility with added media exposure

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to showcase your products, connect with key buyers, and grow your footprint in one of the world’s most dynamic semiconductor markets!

Act fast—spots are limited! Contact Ms. Peng for more information:

Economic disputes and legal risks can place a significant burden on businesses—especially in international trade. While political discussions about reforming arbitration procedures continue, the new Arbitration Court (SGH), an initiative by DIHK, the German Chambers of Commerce Abroad (AHKs), and the German Chambers of Industry and Commerce (IHKs), officially launched operations in December. It offers solutions from the business community, for the business community: fast, cost-effective, and high-quality.

Taiwan’s machinery industry is expected to see only modest growth in 2025 due to a subdued global economy. However, investment in electronics and semiconductor equipment remains the key growth driver. Taiwanese companies are prioritizing automation and the integration of AI and digital solutions to strengthen global competitiveness — efforts that are supported by government programs such as the Smart Machinery Industry Promotion Program.

The U.S. has become Taiwan’s top export market for machinery, overtaking China, while demand from Southeast Asia, particularly India and Vietnam, is also growing. In contrast, exports to Germany and the wider EU region remain weak. Nevertheless, Germany remains one of Taiwan’s most important machinery suppliers, especially for high-tech and semiconductor-related equipment.

Taiwan’s machinery production grew by 3.2% in 2024, with electronics-related segments up nearly 20%. In contrast, production in machine tools and general-purpose machinery declined. Although the number of companies in the sector decreased slightly, industry revenue increased due to stronger domestic growth. Taiwan’s export-oriented machinery manufacturers remain globally competitive, but face increasing pressure from China and Japan.

Read more about Taiwan’s machinery sector in 2025 (in German).

Join the world leader in energy technology! MR’s subsidiary Reinhausen Taiwan Ltd. located in Taipei is seeking a dedicated technical service professional to join our dynamic team. In this role, you will be responsible for providing exceptional On-Load Tap Changers maintenance, technical support, repair works, and investigation to our valued customers.

The ideal candidate should have:
🔹 Engineering background (Electrical, Mechanical, or Mechatronics)
🔹 Enjoys hands-on work and customer oriented
🔹 Willing to travel, fluent in English & Mandarin

This is an onsite position and requires candidates to be based in Taipei, Taiwan

Interested in shaping the future of energy with MR?
Click here to learn more and apply today!

Join us for All-Chambers Taipei Connect, the first major inter-chamber networking event of 2025!

• Date: Thursday, April 24, 2025
• Time: 18:00 – 21:30 (Registration from 17:30)
• Venue: Mandarin Oriental Taipei

This edition features a panel discussion on “Attracting and Retaining Talents”, moderated by Kwangyin Liu (CommonWealth Magazine), with speakers from NTU, Crossroads, and the Taiwan Employment Gold Card Office.

Enjoy valuable networking, buffet dinner, and drinks with members of 9 international chambers.

Register now!

For inquiries about this event, please contact director@swedchamtw.org.

IMF Raises Taiwan's 2025 GDP Forecast to 2.9%

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has revised its 2025 GDP growth forecast for Taiwan upward to 2.9%, an increase of 0.2 percentage points from its previous projection. This puts Taiwan ahead of other regional economies such as Japan (0.6%), South Korea (1.0%), and Singapore (2.0%). The IMF's World Economic Outlook, released in April, acknowledged global uncertainty due to shifting trade policies but highlighted Taiwan's relative economic resilience.

The report also projects stable inflation in Taiwan, with the consumer price index (CPI) expected to rise by 1.8% in 2025 and slightly ease to 1.6% in 2026—well below global inflation levels. Taiwan’s unemployment rate is forecast to hold steady at 3.4% through both years. These figures underscore Taiwan’s strong fundamentals amid a challenging international environment.

(Last access: 23.04.2025 / Focus Taiwan)

Taiwan Pursues “Democratic Value Chain” Strategy Amid Global Shifts

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has outlined a new “three-chain strategy” aimed at navigating the challenges posed by global trade uncertainty and U.S. tariffs. The approach, announced by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung, emphasizes building a “global democratic value chain,” strengthening Taiwan’s role within the Indo-Pacific region, and advancing a “non-red supply chain” that reinforces partnerships with like-minded democracies.

As part of its values-based diplomacy, Taiwan aims to contribute to global economic resilience through trade, smart technology exports, and strategic overseas industry deployment. The government also reaffirmed its commitment to U.S. cooperation, regional integration initiatives like the CPTPP, and dual-axis transformation focusing on digital and net-zero technologies. This multifaceted strategy underscores Taiwan’s effort to solidify its position in global supply chains while championing democratic values.

(Last access: 23.04.2025 / Taipei Times)

7-Eleven Taiwan Surpasses 7,000 Stores, Eyes Further Expansion

Taiwan’s 7-Eleven network, operated by President Chain Store Corp., reached 7,110 stores in 2024, solidifying its market dominance with over 50% share in the local convenience store sector. Globally, the chain operates more than 13,000 outlets. The company also posted record revenues of NT$337.9 billion (US$10.5 billion) and net profits of NT$13.7 billion.

In addition to launching new store formats in Tainan and Kaohsiung, the company is aggressively expanding abroad—particularly in the Philippines, where it plans to open 450 new stores this year. With a youthful population and rising demand for fast food and financial services, the chain introduced hybrid CVS-QSR formats and ATMs in thousands of stores. Back home, the company is boosting its logistics and e-commerce footprint, with new centers in Tainan and Taichung set to support further growth.

(Last access: 23.04.2025 / Taiwan News)

Google Signs First Offshore Wind Power Deal in Taiwan

Set to become operational in 2027, the wind farm will consist of 33 turbines located 35 kilometers off the coast of Taichung. Google emphasized the strategic value of offshore wind in ensuring stable power supply, especially during periods of low solar output. The deal highlights Taiwan’s growing role in the global renewable energy market and demonstrates continued interest from global tech leaders in its infrastructure development.

(Last access: 23.04.2025 / Taiwan News)