TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Economic Minister J.W. Kuo (郭智輝) on Monday (Dec. 2) emphasized the need for Taiwan to integrate its medical and technology hardware talents, asserting that the nation's health industry will become a global leader. Speaking at an economic summit forum hosted by Commercial Times (工商時報), Kuo outlined strategies for Taiwan to navigate the evolving global supply chain landscape.
Kuo highlighted that fewer than 200 million of the world's 8 billion people focus on AI, suggesting a significant growth opportunity. He noted the U.S.-China trade war has reshaped global supply chains, urging Taiwan to reassess its competitive industries for the next decade. Emphasizing global market orientation, Kuo cited TSMC's (台積電) success as a model for Taiwanese industries.
Kuo stated Taiwan's semiconductor and AI sectors possess a competitive edge due to their manufacturing speed and flexibility. He assured that the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA, 經濟部) will support industries in identifying optimal development paths. Despite Taiwan's small domestic market, reliance on exports and foreign investment remains crucial. Concerns linger over localized supply chains potentially impacting Taiwan's production and employment.
Kuo dismissed the notion that globalization is dead and advocated strengthening Taiwan's software capabilities. The ministry plans to train 200,000 application talents within four years. He identified AI's top global application as healthcare, urging Taiwan to develop its health industry into a NT$10 trillion sector.