Taiwan targets NT$50 billion drone industry output by 2030

Taiwanese Economic Minister Gong Ming-xin has raised the projected output value of the nation's unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) industry to over NT$50 billion by 2030, up from an earlier estimate of NT$40 billion. The government is implementing a six-year, NT$44.2 billion integrated development plan to bolster the sector.

The strategy focuses on two main phases: ensuring all aircraft are “non-red” (free from Chinese components) to enhance national security and achieving self-sufficiency in critical components and software. Key technical targets include the “three chips and two software” framework, covering flight control, communication, satellite positioning, and ground control systems.

Funding is allocated for government procurement—including use in power grid inspections, disaster relief, and agriculture—as well as technical upgrades and the establishment of up to 30 test flight sites. To facilitate international expansion, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) is collaborating with the US-based Green UAS to align certification standards, aiming to streamline the entry of Taiwanese drones into the American market.