AI demand drives sharp rise in Asian exports

Asian economies recorded strong export growth in recent months, led by South Korea, as demand for semiconductors and other technology products continued to expand alongside investment in artificial intelligence.

South Korea’s exports rose 83.5 per cent year on year in September, the largest annual increase in the figures provided. Semiconductor shipments were a major contributor, climbing 263 per cent over the same period.

Other Asian economies also reported strong gains. Singapore’s exports increased 46.2 per cent year on year in August, while Malaysia recorded growth of 45.5 per cent and Taiwan 41 per cent.

Vietnam’s exports rose 39.1 per cent in September, according to the figures provided. China recorded a 25 per cent increase in August, while Japan’s exports grew 19.3 per cent over the same period.

The gains reflect strong demand for products used in AI infrastructure and computing, including semiconductors, electronics and computers. As companies invest in data centres and AI systems, demand for advanced chips and related equipment has become an important driver of technology trade across the region.

However, export growth rates alone do not show how much each economy benefited in monetary terms. The figures also cover different months, making direct comparisons less conclusive. Export performance can be influenced by product prices, exchange rates, shipment schedules and the strength of demand in individual markets.

The latest figures point to the growing role of technology supply chains in Asian trade, with semiconductor-producing economies particularly exposed to shifts in global spending on AI and computing.

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