As part of these new measures, Taiwan has prohibited the export of semiconductor manufacturing equipment, certain chemical compounds, and specific pharmaceuticals to these countries. The updated sanctions list now includes a total of 45 items, for which no export licenses will be granted.
This move follows Taiwan's earlier response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, where it condemned Russian aggression and aligned with the sanctions imposed by the United States and the European Union. Initially, Taiwan restricted sales of high-tech goods to Russia, including household items that could potentially be repurposed for military equipment production. Taiwan is globally recognized as a leading developer and supplier of microchips.
According to Reuters, the expansion of these sanctions holds more symbolic significance than practical impact, as direct exports from Taiwan to Russia and Belarus of microchips and related technologies were already minimal. However, the relevance of these measures is underscored by the discovery of foreign-made mechanical and electronic components, considered dual-use goods, in the remnants of Russian missiles and drones recovered in Ukraine. These components can be utilized for both civilian and military manufacturing.
