Lai Ching-te commits to elevate Taiwan as an AI and semiconductor powerhouse

Taiwan has recently positioned itself as a key player in the global technology landscape, particularly in the artificial intelligence and semiconductor sectors. On May 23, 2025, President Lai Ching-te delivered a speech during the Global Semiconductor Supply Chain Partnership Forum held in Taipei City. In his address, he emphasized Taiwan’s unique responsibility for global technological advancement and expressed the nation's readiness to serve as a focal point in the age of AI. He highlighted Taiwan's leading status in the integrated circuit manufacturing, packaging, and testing industries, where the country consistently ranks first worldwide. President Lai pointed out the importance of strengthening collaborative efforts within the global semiconductor supply chain, particularly with partners in Japan, the Netherlands, and the United States. He underscored that, while Taiwan dominates hardware capabilities, it also aims to advance software solutions to further propel the AI industry. This move is seen as an initiative to enhance both the country's economic sustainability and international competitiveness in an increasingly technology-driven market. Lai also raised concerns regarding price dumping practices in the semiconductor sector, drawing parallels to China's subsidies in steel, solar panels, and automobiles, which he claimed disrupt market fairness. He called upon various nations to unite and cooperate to prevent the erosion of growth and innovation from unfair pricing tactics. According to Lai, a collective approach among democracies worldwide is essential to ensure a robust and equitable semiconductor market. The event featured more than 700 participants, including academics, business professionals, and industry representatives, demonstrating significant interest in Taiwan's semiconductor developments. Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei, who hosted the forum's first seminar, provided insights into Taiwan's semiconductor landscape amidst geopolitical challenges. He elaborated on initiatives put forward by President Lai to strengthen supply chain partnerships with global democracies and strategies aimed at attracting foreign investments. The establishment of a reliable international chip market, alongside building an international talent network, remains a crucial goal. In summary, Taiwan's government is actively pursuing advancements to solidify its role in the semiconductor industry and embrace opportunities within the AI landscape. With substantial investment in infrastructure, including data centers and supercomputers, and a commitment to improving legal mechanisms and offering financial incentives, Taiwan is positioned to thrive in the evolving technological age.