环球时报文章：日企对台投资，从巅峰快速滑落

Core Insights - Japanese direct investment in Taiwan has significantly decreased, with 2024's investment amounting to $452 million, a 73% drop from the 2022 peak of $1.7 billion, and a year-on-year decline of 27% [1][2] - The number of Japanese companies operating in Taiwan has also declined, with 2,988 companies as of July 2024, down 136 from two years prior, representing a 4.4% decrease [2] - Japan's investment focus has shifted from Taiwan to mainland China, where the number of Japanese companies increased from 12,706 in 2022 to 13,034 in 2024 [2] Investment Trends - Japanese companies have historically supported key industries in Taiwan through direct investment, technology transfer, and industrial cooperation, particularly in sectors like semiconductors and precision machinery [5] - Recent trends show significant growth in Japanese investments in consumer products and the semiconductor supply chain, with notable expansions by brands like Muji and Don Quijote [6] - Japan remains Taiwan's third-largest trade partner, with a total trade volume of $72.297 billion in 2024, where Taiwan's exports to Japan were $25.842 billion and imports were $46.455 billion, resulting in a trade deficit of $20.613 billion for Taiwan [6] Geopolitical Factors - The geopolitical landscape has influenced Japanese companies' investment strategies, shifting from being "technology leaders" to "strategic risk-averse" partners due to rising tensions and competition in high-tech sectors [9] - Japan's aging population and declining domestic market have prompted Japanese firms to seek growth opportunities abroad, with Taiwan being a key market due to established trade relations and consumer familiarity [7] - The recent trade environment has led to Japan experiencing a trade deficit for four consecutive fiscal years, with a reported deficit of 22.158 trillion yen (approximately $107.5 billion) in the first half of 2025 [8]