Taiwan tightens export controls on advanced tech

台灣縮緊先進技術出口管制

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Ministry of Economic Affairs on Monday released a draft revision of its strategic high-tech goods export control list, adding 18 items that will require manufacturers to obtain export permits before shipment.

According to the International Trade Administration, the changes are now subject to a 60-day public notice period covering updates to the Export Control List for Dual Use Items and Technology and the Common Military List, per CNA.

Under the proposal, the new controls span high-end 3D printers, advanced semiconductor tools, electron microscopes, and quantum computers. Each category is classified as sensitive technology with potential military applications.

The administration said exporters will need MOEA approval for any shipment deemed controlled, but permits will be granted if transactions pose no risk of military proliferation. Officials stressed that the revision is designed to prevent strategic goods from entering weapons programs, not to halt legitimate trade.

The administration added that the ministry reviews and updates the lists annually under Article 13, Paragraph 3 of the Foreign Trade Act, following practices adopted by allied countries.