Taiwan’s Economy Minister J.W. Kuo speaks during a press conference at the Economy Ministry in Taipei, Taiwan May 30, 2024. REUTERS/Ben Blanchard/File Photo Purchase Licensing Rights , opens new tab

TAIPEI, Aug 22 (Reuters) – Taiwan’s economy minister said on Friday he had resigned for health reasons, ahead of a widely expected cabinet reshuffle as the government faces domestic challenges including trying to work with an opposition-dominated legislature.

One of the ministry’s key roles is overseeing the crucial semiconductor sector in Taiwan, home to the world’s largest contract chipmaker TSMC (2330.TW) , opens new tab.

It also enforces controls to ensure sensitive high-tech goods do not end up in countries subject to export curbs such as China or Russia, and oversees energy policy.

Kuo Jyh-huei, previously a senior executive of a TSMC supplier, Topco Scientific (5434.TW) , opens new tab, assumed the role in May of last year as President Lai Ching-te’s administration took office.

In a statement issued by his ministry, Kuo said his resignation was based on “health considerations” given the taxing nature of the job.

Kuo has faced criticism from opposition parties for his frequent verbal slip-ups.

“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 said in his resignation statement.

There was no immediate word from the cabinet on his replacement.

Lai has had to contend with opposition parties, who form a majority in parliament, blocking legislation and passing their own, as well as imposing swingeing budget cuts.

Taiwan media said this week that a cabinet reshuffle this month was very likely, and named Kuo as one of the ministers most at risk of being replaced.

Kuo had also been one of the ministers involved in formulating the government’s response to President Donald Trump‘s 20% tariff on goods exported to the United States.

Earlier on Friday, Digital Affairs Minister Yennun Huang said he was also stepping down, to return to academia.

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