Taiwan economy minister steps down before the anticipated cabinet reorganization

Taiwan’s economy minister quit on Friday because of health issues. This came before a much-anticipated reshuffle of the cabinet, which comes at a time when the government is facing problems at home, such as working with an opposition-controlled legislature.

One of the ministry’s main jobs is to keep an eye on Taiwan’s important semiconductor industry. This is where the world’s biggest contract chipmaker, TSMC (2330.TW), is located.

It also makes sure that important high-tech goods don’t end up in countries like China or Russia that have limits on exports, and it is in charge of energy policy.

Kuo Jyh-huei, who used to be a top executive at Topco Scientific (5434.TW), took over the job in May of last year when President Lai Ching-te’s government took over.

His ministry said in a statement that Kuo’s decision to quit was due to “health considerations” because the job was too hard.

Kuo has been criticized by the opposition for making mistakes with his words all the time.

“Regarding the criticism and feedback I have received from various sectors during this period, whether directed at policies or at me personally, I sincerely appreciate it and humbly accept it,” he wrote in his resignation statement.

The cabinet had not yet said who would take his place.

The opposing parties have been a problem for Lai because they control most of parliament and can block laws and pass their own. They also cut the budget by huge amounts.

This week, Taiwanese media said that a government reshuffle was very likely to happen this month and named Kuo as one of the ministers most likely to be fired.

Kuo was also one of the ministers who helped come up with the government’s reaction to Trump’s 20% tariff on goods coming into the US.

Thursday morning, Digital Affairs Minister Yennun Huang also said he was resigning to return to teaching.