Taiwan’s fastener exports rose 3.4% to 327,100 tons in the first quarter of 2025 as importers increased orders ahead of U.S. tariffs, according to the Taiwan Fastener Association. While the average export price dipped 2.8%, higher shipment volume drove overall export gains.

Taiwan’s fastener shipments to major customers, including the U.S., Japan, Germany, Spain and Sweden, showed significant growth during the quarter.

Exports to the U.S. climbed 5.1% to 153,300 tons, accounting for nearly half of total Q1 exports. Industry analysts attribute this to the U.S.-China tariff war, which has reduced China's price competitiveness and created opportunities for Taiwanese suppliers to gain orders. At least 33% of U.S. fastener imports totaling $2.2 billion came from Taiwan in 2024, according to the U.S. Department of Commerce.

European markets saw strong growth as well. In March, fastener exports to Germany jumped 102.7% month-to-month, exports to Belgium more than doubled (117.8%), and exports to the Netherlands increased 175.4%.

In March, U.S. President Donald Trump ordered a 25% tax on all products from Taiwan, squeezing fastener manufacturers’ already narrow margins.

A month later, Trump imposed an additional 34% in “reciprocal” duties on Taiwan, before reducing the rate to 10% and granting a three-month delay on the 34% tariffs.