SPORTS Trader 2026

aiwan’s sporting goods industry is currently facing a transition from traditional manufacturing to smart technologies and greater internationalization. In recent years, the global rise in sports participation and health awareness, combined with the mainstream adoption of technology and digital applications, has reshaped consumer demand. Products such as smart fitness equipment and wearable sports devices are gaining has made Taiwanese manufacturers place greater emphasis on product development, design, and value-added solutions to further expand to an increasingly competitive global market. According to Taiwan’s sporting goods export statistics from January to December 2025, although the pace of growth remained relatively moderate, the overall export value continued to show a growth trend. Among major product categories, fitness equipment and golf equipment maintained steady expansion, accounting for approximately 35.45% and 30.87% of total exports respectively. Total sporting goods exports increased from around USD 173 million in 2024 to USD 182 million in 2025, representing year-on-year growth of about 5.4%. However, certain categories, such as various types of balls and camping products, which mainly rely on seasonal and leisure-related demand, indicated a decline in export growth. In terms of export market by countries, the United States remains Taiwan’s largest destination for sporting goods exports, accounting for approximately 50.76% of total export value. This figure significantly exceeds that of the second-largest market, mainland China at around 8.92%, and the third-largest market, Japan at approximately 6.25%. Demand from the North American market continues to expand, while Europe and other parts of Asia each maintain stable shares, reflecting the gradual establishment of Taiwan’s product quality and brand reputation on a global scale. Despite this overall steady performance, Taiwan’s sporting goods industry faces several challenges. Firstly, the global competition has been increasing, particularly from manufacturers in Southeast Asia and China with cost and supply-chain advantages, has further compressed margins in the mid- to low-priced product segments. In addition, fluctuations in raw material prices and international logistics costs have also increased operational pressure on businesses. Trade policies and tariff measures in certain international markets may also affect export performance, requiring companies to make strategic adjustments and commit additional resources when expanding into new markets. Looking ahead, how the industry enhances value-added potential through innovative design, brand marketing, and smart manufacturing will be a key factor shaping its future development. Text / Infotrade INDUSTRY TRENDS www.IMB2B.com T Taiwan’s Sporting Goods Industry Trends: From Manufacturing to Smart and Global Growth 12