TAIPEI: Taiwan's export orders likely rose in December for a 10th straight month, a Reuters poll showed, buoyed by continued demand for technology products during coronavirus-induced lockdowns that forced millions around the world to stay home.

The median forecast from the poll of 13 economists was for export orders to rise 27% from a year-ago period. Forecasts ranged from a growth of 9.5% to as high as 36%.

Taiwan usually sees strong electronics orders in the third and fourth quarters, ahead of the year-end holiday season when vendors launch smartphone models.

Orders in November jumped 29.7% from a year earlier, and at the quickest pace in a decade, boosted by ongoing strong global demand for the island's technology products.

Taiwan's export orders are a leading indicator of demand for Asia's exports and for hi-tech gadgets, and typically lead actual exports by two to three months.