Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Taiwan are in a prime position to reap significant benefits from the rapid growth of the e-commerce sector. Mainly driven by the restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the global acceleration in e-commerce usage also presents an opportunity for Taiwan to tap into the significant overseas demand with its strong export-oriented policy environment and digital maturity.
In 2022, business-to-consumer (B2C) e-commerce exports in Taiwan were valued at NTD157 billion (USD5.7 billion). Our analysis shows that if MSMEs accelerate their adoption of e-commerce to export products and services, Taiwan’s e-commerce export revenues could rise to NTD335.2 billion (USD12.1 billion) by 2027. Additionally, the share of revenues earned by MSMEs could increase to 74%, compared to just 35% in 2022.
Our survey of 300 Taiwanese MSMEs found that 71% believe that without e-commerce, they would be unable to export. MSMEs also value the lower operating costs associated with e-commerce compared to traditional offline methods of exporting. They appreciate the reach of e-commerce services, which allow them to access a wide range of foreign customers. Despite the recent reopening of brick-and-mortar stores due to the relaxation of COVID-19 restrictions, MSMEs still believe that the demand for online shopping will continue to provide significant opportunities in their export markets abroad.
However, Taiwanese MSMEs have identified several barriers to using e-commerce for exporting, particularly related to costs and regulatory issues. MSMEs also mention that while they currently benefit from some export and e-commerce grants to help reduce these costs, they would like to see further support in this area. They would also like to see additional support in managing regulatory issues like digital trade regulations.
A full report on this e-commerce export opportunity in Taiwan is forthcoming. Please click the button below to access the key findings from our study.
