Taiwan confirms it is restricting trade to South Africa
Cape Town, South Africa (PANA) – Taiwan has confirmed that it is restricting trade to South Africa after Pretoria said it will downgrade its mission in the country amid ongoing diplomatic tensions.
Taiwan’s International Trade Administration said pre-approval would now be required for semiconductor computer chips destined for South Africa.
“The SA government’s actions have undermined our national and public security. We are adopting measures to restrict trade to maintain our sovereignty,” it said.
The chips are a crucial component needed for the manufacturing of basically any modern electronic device. Around 90% of the advanced semiconductors in the world are made in Taiwan.
South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in July said Taiwan’s liaison offices in Pretoria and Cape Town would no longer be recognised. Both offices would be renamed Taipei Commercial Offices. DIRCO added that it views China as the “sole legitimate representative of China”.
Spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said that the renaming of the liaison offices in July did not change the political relationship between Taiwan and South Africa.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has called on the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, to urgently repeal the order as the decision is in direct conflict with South Africa’s national interest.
“As an emerging economy, South Africa must deepen existing trading relationships and identify new opportunities to expand market access. South Africa’s recognition of the One China Policy should not come at the expense of diversified trade, economic growth, and jobs. South Africa is a sovereign nation that must pursue its national interest independent of external influence,” said Ryan Smith, DA Spokesperson on International Relations and Cooperation.
-0- PANA CU/MA 25Sept2025
