Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) recently proposed a “tariffs first, commodity tax later” approach in response to growing trade pressure from the US, raising concerns in the local automotive sector. Sanyang Motor (SYM), which operates both motorcycle and automobile divisions, responded by calling for a rationalization of tariff structures instead of focusing solely on tax cuts.

Taiwan-based passive components giant Yageo announced on June 25, 2025, that its previously disclosed tender offer to acquire Japan’s Shibaura has received approval from Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) Investment Commission. According to relevant Japanese regulations, the takeover bid (TOB) period will be extended from the original deadline of July 1 to July 9, as Yageo continues to gradually increase its shareholding stake.

As the calendar turns to the third quarter of 2025, the global smartphone industry finds itself at a critical juncture, shaped by a complex mix of geopolitical tensions, tariff uncertainty, and currency volatility. These macroeconomic headwinds continue to weigh on consumer sentiment, making a strong recovery in end-market demand increasingly difficult. Industry analysts are warning of rising operating costs and mounting challenges for smartphone vendors in the second half of the year.

Recent market reports indicate that leading companies such as Apple, Qualcomm, and MediaTek are highly likely to fully adopt 2nm chips by 2026. Google, having recently shifted its chip production from Samsung Electronics to TSMC, may also join this trend to ensure its hardware manufacturing processes keep pace with other industry leaders and maintain competitive strength.