とは言え is one of the standard grammar patterns in Japanese that makes use of the imperative form in order to strongly state a point. It will often be translated as 'although (A), (B) will not change', or 'be that as it may, (B)'. Literally, it is just making use of the case-marking particle と in addition to the adverbial particle は to present (A) as a quote that the speaker acknowledges, but may not actually accept.
As this structure begins with と, it may be used at the end of any standard statement.
In most situations, the way that とはいえ will be used is like the English 'say that it is (A), that still doesn't change (B)'. (A) will generally be something that is true, or true as far as the speaker knows.
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Exemples
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馬は肉を食べることができる。とは言え、普通は食べない。
Horses are perfectly capable of eating meat. Having said that, they generally do not eat it. (be that as it may)
犯人は逮捕されたとは言え有罪と宣告されるまで時間がかかるだろう。
Although (I admit that) the criminal has been caught, it will be some time before they are declared guilty. (be that as it may)
彼は社長とは言え名前ばかりだ。権限は取締役会にある。
Although he is admittedly the company president, it is in name only. It is the board of directors that holds the power. (be that as it may)
今では、パンデミックの進行状況は遅いとは言え、まだ安心するわけにはいかない。
Although (I admit that) the progress of the pandemic is slow, we cannot afford to feel at ease just yet. (be that as it may)
彼女があなたにとって実の母親であるとは言え、礼儀を欠くべきではない。
Although she is, for you, your real mother, you should not lack manners.
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