Taiwan office dispute has delayed the implementation of new chip export restrictions targeting South Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs urged a pause after Pretoria agreed to reopen dialogue.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs announced earlier this week that it would require prior approval for 47 technology products. The planned measures covered integrated circuits, memory, and related components. Officials initially intended to begin the new rules in late November.
However, after consultations, the ministry decided not to upload the public notice to the Cabinet’s online gazette system. That decision effectively suspended the two-month review period needed before implementation. The move followed fresh communication from South Africa signaling readiness to engage in direct talks.
The Taiwan office dispute traces back to October 2024. At that time, South Africa sought to reclassify Taiwan’s main office from Pretoria to Johannesburg. Authorities wanted to rename it as a trade office instead of a liaison mission. Taipei objected strongly and demanded formal discussions.
Despite protests, South Africa continued to downgrade Taiwan’s diplomatic presence. By July this year, Pretoria had renamed the main office and a Cape Town branch as commercial offices. The Department of International Relations and Cooperation also listed them as international organizations rather than foreign representations.
Taiwan maintained its Pretoria office regardless of the unilateral changes. Officials stressed that services for citizens and businesses would continue without disruption. At the same time, Taipei accused Beijing of influencing Pretoria’s actions under the one-China principle.
Resolution 2758 at the United Nations remains a critical backdrop. Passed in 1971, it transferred China’s U.N. seat from Taipei to Beijing. Analysts say Beijing frequently cites this resolution when pressuring countries to limit Taiwan’s international status.
Industry observers warned that prolonged tensions could affect trade flows. Taiwan supplies advanced chips worldwide, and South Africa relies on technology imports. Export restrictions would increase costs and complicate supply chains.
Diplomatic experts argued that the new willingness to talk could ease frictions. They said resuming discussions allows both sides to avoid immediate escalation.
Taiwan office dispute will likely remain a sensitive issue. Taipei has insisted it wants equal treatment and respect for its representative missions. Officials said they will monitor progress and reassess export control measures if talks stall.
Looking ahead, Taiwan aims to balance economic measures with diplomatic engagement. Taiwan office dispute underscores how global technology trade and political recognition remain closely linked.
