Sachsen is strengthening its semiconductor ties with Taiwan as regional officials look to secure the state’s position as a leading European microelectronics hub. Saxony’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Dirk Panter, traveled to Taiwan from August 30 to September 2 to meet with government and industry leaders, including Taiwanese Economic Minister Kung Ming-hsin, according to official state disclosures. The delegation’s visit coincides with the SEMICON Taiwan trade fair, where 23 companies from Saxony are exhibiting within a dedicated German pavilion organized by Silicon Saxony.
### Saxony Targets European Semiconductor Leadership
Saxony currently ranks as the fifth-largest semiconductor hub globally and holds the top position in Europe. Minister Panter stated during his visit that the state aims to expand its manufacturing capabilities and attract further foreign investment. Bilateral economic ties have strengthened significantly following the decision by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) to build its first European plant in Dresden.
The European Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (ESMC)—a joint venture comprising TSMC, Bosch, Infineon, and NXP—is constructing a major fabrication plant in Dresden. According to project timelines, the facility is scheduled to open by the end of 2027. The project represents a substantial investment and receives substantial backing from the German federal government under the European Chips Act.
### Trade Figures and Regional Growth
Economic exchange between Saxony and Taiwan continues to grow. According to regional trade data, Saxon exports to Taiwan increased by 9.8 percent to reach a significant financial sum, marking the region’s third-best export performance with the island. Electrical engineering products accounted for the vast majority of these exports, totaling a substantial amount. Taiwan moved up one rank to become Saxony’s 11th-largest export partner overall.
The delegation accompanying Minister Panter included representatives from the Saxony Economic Development Corporation (WFS), local chambers of commerce, the economic mayors of Leipzig and Dresden, and regional microelectronics experts. Following his engagements in Taipei, Minister Panter is scheduled to travel to Vietnam through September 8 to build further trade partnerships in Southeast Asia.