TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan is setting its sights on becoming a global powerhouse in AI software, as Minister of Economic Affairs J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) announced on Tuesday (Sept. 3) an ambitious plan to leap from 25th to a top-three ranking by 2028.
Kuo revealed this goal at the Semicon Taiwan forum, emphasizing the importance of attracting global investors.
Kuo stated that to encourage startup investment, Taiwan will amend the "Statute for Industrial Innovation" (產業創新條例), lowering investment thresholds to help small and medium-sized enterprises quickly secure funding.
The Industrial Development Administration (產業發展署) confirmed plans to revise Articles 23-1 and 23-2, expanding applicants' eligibility. The Ministry of Finance (財政部) has approved the draft, which will be officially announced soon.
The Three Major Programs for Investing in Taiwan (投資台灣三大方案), initiated on July 1, 2019, will be extended to 2027. The program will focus on the semiconductor and AI supply chain industries. Kuo noted that the extended program will now target foreign and Taiwanese investors globally, with specific details still under discussion.
Highlighting investments from major companies like NVIDIA, AMD, and Micron, Kuo expressed optimism about Taiwan's economic development. He emphasized the shift from hardware to AI applications, which will enhance Taiwan's competitive edge.
He also pointed out that Taiwan's AI innovation market needs a population of around 50 million. By combining Taiwan's population with Japan's Kyushu region, the market size could be achieved by leveraging superior medical technology and talent for AI-driven medical advancements.
Kuo concluded by acknowledging Taiwan's world-class manufacturing capabilities but noted the smaller software market and insufficient funding for startups. He assured that the government will focus on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in the startup sector.