Taiwan says peace crucial to chip supply as China pressure grows

Taiwan is calling for peace in the face of ramping aggression from China, saying the global chip ecosystem relies on it to be able to operate smoothly. — STR/AFP

Peace in the Taiwan Strait is key to the island’s ability to ensure continuous supply of the chips needed to power a wide range of products from cars to smartphones, a senior Taiwanese official said.

Taipei is seeking to rally political support as China ramps up its aggression toward the island that it considers part of its territory. Warplanes sent by Beijing made a record 93 flights close to Taiwan over a three-day period starting Friday, prompting the US State Department to express concern and urge China to cease its "provocative” actions.