Driven by increased demand for artificial intelligence (AI), exports of semiconductors, computers, and peripherals recorded triple-digit growth, propelling August's information and communication technology (ICT) export figures.
On September 14, the Ministry of Science and ICT and the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy reported that August's ICT exports totaled $59.98 billion, marking a 162.6% increase compared to the same month last year. This marks the third consecutive month of exports exceeding $50 billion, achieving the highest export figures on record.
Imports reached $18.61 billion, a 48.8% increase from the previous year, resulting in a trade surplus of $41.37 billion.
Leading the August ICT exports were semiconductors and computers and peripherals, which saw a 209% increase to $46.67 billion. This surge is attributed to sustained demand for AI infrastructure driven by increased capital investment from global tech giants, leading to continued excess demand for memory products.
Exports of computers and peripherals were boosted by a significant rise in solid-state drive (SSD) exports, which increased by 383.1% to $6.4 billion compared to the same month last year.
Mobile phone exports also saw a 23.2% increase, totaling $1.64 billion, driven by higher sales of premium new products and an increase in component exports.
Exports of communication equipment rose by 11.5% to $210 million, attributed to increased shipments to countries such as Vietnam, India, and Japan.
Regionally, exports centered around semiconductors and mobile phones also saw broad increases. Exports to China surged by 227.9% to $27.32 billion, while exports to the United States grew by 306.5% to $9.46 billion.
Vietnam reported an 81.4% increase to $7.01 billion, Taiwan saw a 54.3% rise to $5.54 billion, and the European Union experienced a 49.1% growth to $1.93 billion. Exports to India increased by 126.7% to $1.04 billion, and Japan's exports rose by 72.4% to $560 million.
In July, ICT exports were recorded at $53.36 billion, reflecting a 140.6% increase from the previous year.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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