Taiwan Urges Gas Stockpiling Amid Semiconductor Supply Risks

Taiwan's semiconductor industry, a cornerstone of the global economy, is facing a critical turning point as of April 2026.

Due to mounting geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, specifically the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, the supply of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) and helium has become increasingly unstable.

Currently, Taiwan holds only 11 days of LNG reserves, a figure viewed as a major strategic vulnerability.

Furthermore, the island lacks a strategic stockpile of helium, which is essential for chip processing.

In response, industry leaders are pushing for the government to establish state-level reserves, similar to those in the U.S. and Japan.

Perhaps most notably, there is a renewed push to reconsider nuclear energy—following the closure of the last plant in May 2025—to ensure a stable power baseload.

As energy security becomes synonymous with national security, Taiwan is striving to diversify its supply chains to protect its 'Silicon Shield.'