As the global semiconductor arms race intensifies, China’s homegrown players are racing to localize critical chipmaking tools. One standout is Shanghai Yuliangsheng Technology Co., a three-year-old startup that has quietly positioned itself as a rising contender in the highly specialized field of photolithography systems.

Riding a wave of surging demand for low-Earth orbit (LEO) satellite communications, Universal Microwave Technology (UMT) posted record revenue in the first half of 2025, showcasing robust growth momentum. The company’s consolidated revenue reached NT$1.13 billion (approx. US$37.7 million), marking a historic high for the period. Notably, LEO satellite products accounted for 52.7% of total revenue, underscoring the segment’s emergence as the key growth driver.

Taiwanese exporters are responding with cautious pragmatism after the Trump administration announced a new 20% reciprocal tariff rate on Taiwan. The rate represents a reduction from the initially proposed 32%, but remains higher than the 15% rates assigned to Japan and South Korea. While the policy adds fresh pressure to Taiwan’s trade-heavy economy, local industries say the blow is manageable thanks to early diversification efforts and well-prepared contingency strategies.