Taiwan's government pledges unwavering support for artificial intelligence development

Taiwan is recognizing artificial intelligence as a vital component for its future economic growth and technological advancement. On January 11, 2023, during a summit held in Taipei City focused on cultivating AI professionals, Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim articulated the government's commitment to develop AI and related applications. She stressed the necessity for collaboration among academic institutions, the business sector, and the public domain to fully harness AI's potential. These efforts aim not only to spur Taiwan's industrial progress but also to contribute to the global AI supply chain, where Taiwan has significant advantages due to its strong semiconductor industry. Hsiao pointed out that Taiwan possesses a robust talent pool and exceptional capabilities in hardware development, positioning the nation to play a critical role in fostering global AI innovation. She highlighted the government's initiative to integrate AI across various sectors, including education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability, aligning with global trends and addressing the challenges posed by rapid technological advancements. Hsiao noted the dual impact of AI in creating new business models and job opportunities while also presenting new challenges that the workforce must navigate. The vice president emphasized the need for educational reforms, wherein AI-learning plans are being developed to ensure students acquire essential skills for the future workforce. These educational initiatives are designed to prepare the youth for a landscape increasingly influenced by AI technologies, reinforcing Taiwan's status as an emerging leader in AI talent cultivation. In her address, Hsiao acknowledged the urgency for Taiwan to adapt and remain vigilant in the quickly evolving AI landscape. She underscored the government's intention to initiate programs that will integrate AI across all sectors of Taiwanese society. This commitment to AI development and workforce readiness indicates Taiwan's proactive approach towards establishing itself as a smart AI hub, ensuring that technology serves the broader needs of the society while driving economic growth.