New Southbound Policy Portal

Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan (center) is joined by National Science and Technology Council Minister Wu Tsung-tsong (second left), other officials and business representatives in opening an office to promote the Taiwan Chip-based Industrial Innovation Program May 7 in Taipei City. (Courtesy of NSTC)
 

An office to promote the Taiwan Chip-based Industrial Innovation Program was launched by the National Science and Technology Council May 7 in Taipei City, highlighting government intentions to advance technical prowess over the next decade.

Approved by the Executive Yuan last year, the program will receive government funding of a total NT$300 billion (US$9.25 billion) between 2024 and 2033. It focuses on four areas: integrating generative artificial intelligence with chip manufacturing; improving personnel cultivation; accelerating breakthroughs in innovation technologies such as the IC design; and attracting international startups and investment.

According to the NSTC, the office’s tasks include observing and analyzing major countries' and international manufacturers’ semiconductor operations. It will conduct research and analysis on the four major areas above and provide recommendations to adjust overall strategic planning on a rolling basis.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan said that the program will boost Taiwan’s technology by driving innovation in various sectors via generative AI and semiconductor applications. He added that the office will further serve as a platform for cooperation among ministries, academic institutions and businesses while securing Taiwan’s strength on the global semiconductor stage.

Following Cheng’s remarks, NSTC Minister Wu Tsung-tsong expressed similar sentiments, and said that the office will note domestic and international trends while adjusting relevant implementations to make Taiwan a global model for industrial innovation.

The NSTC added that a public-private alliance is also in the pipeline to integrate resources and strengthen the development of the country’s industrial ecosystem. (YCH-E)