Taiwan and Japan deepen ties with new trade center in Fukuoka

In Japan, on April 21, 2025, the Taiwan Trade and Investment Service Center was inaugurated in the city of Fukuoka. This significant event, organized by the Ministry of Economic Affairs of Taiwan, signifies a pivotal moment in the strengthening of bilateral trade relations between Taiwan and Japan. The center is designed to serve as a vital resource for investment consultation, business matching, technical exchanges, and market development, reflecting the collaborative spirit of both nations. Taiwan has established itself as a leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing and artificial intelligence hardware production. In contrast, Japan is recognized for its expertise in materials, equipment, and quality management. Fukuoka, being the economic center of the Kyushu region, plays a critical role in Japan's semiconductor industry. The location of the new center serves to enhance the visibility and accessibility of Taiwan's capabilities in these sectors. During the inauguration, Deputy Economic Minister Cynthia Kiang emphasized the compatibility of the two countries as like-minded partners with complementary industries. The establishment of this center aims to promote stronger cooperation, facilitating the growth of the Asia-Pacific value chain and exploring win-win opportunities across various markets. The event was attended by over 200 officials from both sides, including prominent figures such as Taiwan External Trade Development Council Chair James C.F. Huang and various governors from the Kyushu region. This center is the second one established under Taiwan’s Pursuing Global Opportunities With Domestic Supply strategy, which aims to enhance Taiwan's global presence. The ministry previously inaugurated a similar center in the Czech Republic in December 2024. The ongoing efforts to forge stronger ties and partnerships will likely yield significant developments in trade and investment between Taiwan and Japan in the future.