Ministry of Economic Affairs Responses: No plan to relocate manufacturing abroad indicated by SpaceX Taiwanese suppliers

Ministry of Economic Affairs Responses: No plan to relocate manufacturing abroad indicated by SpaceX Taiwanese suppliers

In response to circulating online rumors that SpaceX has requested its Taiwanese suppliers to relocate manufacturing operations abroad, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) promptly contacted relevant Taiwanese manufacturers. According to those suppliers, it is standard practice to adjust manufacturing schedules to meet global clients’ customized needs. They further emphasized that during the recent U.S. election period, there were no requests from SpaceX to move production facilities overseas. The MOEA strongly encourages the public not to misinterpret or exaggerate this matter, and reminds everyone to verify the accuracy of their information sources.

Taiwan’s electronics and ICT industries have long been essential parts of the global supply chain, especially in key sectors such as semiconductors and electronic components. Among those suppliers, Taiwan has developed a robust network of 46 manufacturers producing essential electronic components, including material components, PCBs, antenna components, cables, and power supplies. These companies supply many global satellite communication operators and service providers, including SpaceX, as well as supporting the global trend toward integrated GEO, MEO, and LEO satellite communication services. Taiwanese suppliers cater to a wide range of global clients in satellite communications, terrestrial telecom, and equipment manufacturing, ensuring diverse and resilient global deployment.

The electronic components industry remains heavily rooted in Taiwan, continuing to play a vital role in R&D and manufacturing. Since 2011, the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) has facilitated the consolidation of 30 system and component manufacturers through targeted R&D guidance, resulting in the successful development of products across household, automotive, marine, and aviation applications. This initiative aims to foster supply chain partnerships with global satellite communication operators, service providers, and equipment manufacturers.

In recent years, Taiwan has proactively adapted to the shifting landscape of global supply chains amid U.S.-China tech tensions, geopolitical factors, and de-risking strategies. Taiwanese companies have developed highly flexible production capabilities distributed across multiple countries and regions. Overall, in the area of satellite ground receiving equipment (user-terminal), Taiwan has achieved self-sufficiency in R&D, and its manufacturing capacity is highly competitive. Suppliers have confirmed that there are no intentions to shift manufacturing abroad, and short-term political factors are not expected to disrupt the established supply chain relationships between global satellite operators and Taiwanese suppliers.

Spokesman: Ms. Chen Pei-li (Deputy Director General, IDA)
Contact Number: 886-2-7541255#2903, 0925-775150
Email: plchen@ida.gov.tw