Taiwan blocks chip exports to South Africa amid diplomatic rift
Taiwan has imposed restrictions on the export of microchips to South Africa on national security grounds, a move aimed at pressuring Africa’s largest economy, which maintains close ties with China.
The decision came after Pretoria attempted to downgrade Taipei’s representative office and relocate it from the capital to Johannesburg, Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated. This reflects both the island’s economic influence as the world’s top chip producer and its growing frustration over Beijing’s efforts to isolate its diplomatic partners.
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) produces the majority of the world’s most advanced microchips used in cars, artificial intelligence, and industrial production. Taiwan accounts for 50%–70% of the global semiconductor market, and up to 90% when it comes to the most advanced chips.
From now on, Taiwan requires prior approval for most microchips exported to South Africa.
Background of the dispute
In July, Director-General of the Department of West Asia and Africa at Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Philip Yen, warned that Taiwan was considering such restrictions in response to South Africa’s decision to downgrade its office and move it from Pretoria to Johannesburg.
Taiwan’s reaction followed South Africa’s plan to cease recognizing Taipei’s liaison office in Pretoria on July 21, 2025, with the notice published in the Government Gazette.
South Africa first requested the relocation in 2023 after hosting the BRICS summit attended by Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Officials in Pretoria argue that the country severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan back in 1997, and that renaming the offices as trade missions in Taipei and Johannesburg reflects standard diplomatic practice.
“This will truly reflect the non-political and non-diplomatic nature of relations between South Africa and Taiwan,” said Crispin Phiri, spokesperson for South Africa’s foreign ministry.
According to Pretoria, relations have simply been misrepresented, as there is nothing inappropriate about placing Taiwan’s trade office in Johannesburg, the country’s economic hub, while capitals are traditionally reserved for embassies and high commissions.
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