Strengthening Ties and Supply Chains: U.S. Drone Makers and Officials Embark on Strategic Visit to Taiwan

American drone manufacturers and representatives have traveled to Taiwan as part of an effort to fortify their supply chain. This visit aligns with the United States' strategy to mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities by shifting production away from mainland China.

Officials from 26 U.S. drone firms, accompanied by members from the Department of Commerce and the Department of Defense innovation unit, landed in Taipei on Sunday for a four-day trip, as reported by the US International Trade Administration (ITA).

According to a statement from the ITA, on Monday, the delegation engaged in policy discussions with representatives from the American Institute in Taiwan, which serves as Washington's unofficial embassy in Taipei, and with Taiwanese manufacturers. They also toured various commercial and defense enterprises, though no additional details were provided.

The group is set to engage in talks with members of regional drone organizations this coming Tuesday. Additionally, they have scheduled meetings with Taiwan's military personnel, the National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology – the leading arms manufacturer on the island – and the private defense company, the Aerospace Industrial Development Corporation.

The International Trade Association announced that the delegation will participate in business networking sessions with manufacturers from Taiwan on Tuesday and Wednesday.