TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's export-driven economy faces both opportunities and challenges as currency appreciation pressures mount, according to Pegatron (和碩) Chairman T.H. Tung (童子賢), who addressed industry leaders at a forum on Wednesday (July 2). Speaking at the event organized by KPMG and the Monte Jade Science & Technology Association of Taiwan (玉山科技協會), a prominent technology industry group, Tung warned that the strengthening New Taiwan dollar creates headwinds for traditional manufacturers even as tech exporters continue to thrive.
The Taiwanese business leader explained that currency appreciation is a natural consequence of the island's strong export performance, following established patterns of international trade economics. Tung emphasized that Taiwan's growing prominence in critical global industries — particularly semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and other high-technology sectors — continues to fuel exceptional export growth. He urged stakeholders to preserve and strengthen these competitive advantages that have positioned Taiwan as an indispensable link in global technology supply chains.
While recognizing that many Taiwanese exporters have navigated currency fluctuations before, Tung called on government authorities and the Central Bank (CBC, 中央銀行), Taiwan's monetary authority, to implement supportive measures for traditional manufacturing sectors struggling with the stronger currency. Addressing questions about former U.S. President Donald Trump's recent tariff threats against Japan, the Pegatron chairman characterized these tensions as part of broader global trade dynamics. He noted that Taiwan's export markets are diversified well beyond the United States, potentially buffering some impact from any single country's trade policies.
The tech industry leader contextualized current trade tensions by noting that U.S. tariff pressures extend to multiple major economies including the European Union, Japan, and Canada—not just Taiwan. Tung advocated for a diplomatic approach, suggesting that Taiwan should pursue balanced trade negotiations while working toward mutually beneficial outcomes with its trading partners. He emphasized the importance of maintaining dialogue and seeking equitable solutions in an increasingly complex global trade environment. ◼