Taiwan's hand tool industry was lucky to escape the US’ 25% tariffs on imported steel and aluminum and demonstrated its competitive advantage.

In the first two months of 2025, Taiwan's hand tool exports to the US reached 12,130 tons, a year-on-year increase of 21.19%. According to statistics, Taiwan's total hand tool exports in 2024 reached 140,000 tons, of which 50% were exported to the US.

The US hand tool output value in 2024 was US$6.93 billion, the world's sixth largest exporter. Its main products include hand tools, machine tools, and general types, among which hand tools accounted for the largest proportion, reaching 57%.

Jack Lai, Chairman of the Taiwan Hand Tool Manufacturers' Association (THTMA), believed that Trump's policies are highly variable and the impact on the industry remains to be observed.