In 2025, Taiwan topped the global ranking of importers of Russian oil, which is a crucial raw material for the chemical industry and semiconductor production. In the first half of the current year, supply volumes increased by 44% compared to the same period last year. Over six months, Taiwan purchased Russian oil worth 1.3 billion dollars, and the average monthly import rose nearly sixfold compared to the average level of 2022.
This is reported by Finway
Import Growth Amid Sanctions
Despite actively supporting Ukraine and joining international sanctions against the Russian Federation, Taiwan continues to import Russian oil vigorously. Following the onset of the full-scale invasion by Russia in 2022, the Taiwanese government joined the sanctions restrictions, including imposing export bans and halting the supply of equipment that could be used by the Russian military. However, since February 2022, Taiwan has imported 6.8 million tons of Russian oil worth a total of 4.9 billion dollars, which accounts for approximately 20% of all exports of this product from Russia.
Support for Ukraine and Contradictions in Actions
Taiwan has repeatedly demonstrated solidarity with Ukraine. On September 29, Foreign Minister Joseph Wu signed an agreement in Poland regarding assistance for children affected by the aggression of the Russian Federation.
Taiwan has become the world’s largest importer of Russian oil – a product derived from crude oil used in the production of chemicals for the semiconductor industry.
Despite its political support for Ukraine and participation in sanctions, the island continues to increase its purchases of Russian oil, which is a significant factor for Taiwan’s chemical and technology sectors.