TAIPEI, Taiwan: Taiwan's exports grew much more than expected in April, as buyers rushed to purchase its high-tech products before possible new U.S. tariffs. This strong demand could push Taiwan's exports in the first half of the year to a new record high.

According to the Finance Ministry, exports rose 29.9 percent in April compared to a year earlier, reaching US$48.66 billion. That's the second-highest monthly export total ever for Taiwan and much higher than the 16 percent increase predicted by experts. It also beat March's 18.6 percent growth, marking the 18th straight month of rising exports.

Major tech companies like Apple and Nvidia rely on Taiwanese firms such as TSMC, the world's top chipmaker. The ministry said that the export boost came largely from strong demand for artificial intelligence (AI) products, with many customers placing early orders before any tariffs are imposed by the U.S.

The ministry believes Taiwan could set a new record for exports in the first half of the year, but warned that growth may slow in the second half. This would be unusual since exports usually pick up later in the year to prepare for the holiday shopping season in countries like the U.S.

They also cautioned that uncertainty around U.S. tariffs and global political tensions could harm the world economy.

For May, the ministry expects exports to grow by 15 percent to 20 percent compared to last year.

In April, Exports to the U.S. rose 29.5 percent to $13.15 billion (though lower than March's 39.9 percent increase). Exports to China increased by 22.3 percent, up from 12.6 percent in March. Sales of electronic parts rose 26.8 percent to $16.41 billion, with semiconductor exports rising 28.2 percent.

Imports also went up 33 percent in April, reaching $41.46 billion—much higher than the 18.9 percent increase predicted by economists.