TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The head of the Commerce Development Research Institute (CDRI, 商業發展研究院) warned on Monday (Jan. 13) that Taiwan's business sector risks structural decline if it delays digital transformation. CDRI Chairman Hsu Tain-tsair (許添財) emphasized that U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's upcoming administration presents challenges and opportunities for Taiwan's commercial service industry.
Hsu pointed out that while Trump's policy adjustments pose a significant variable, the ongoing U.S.-China tensions could affect Taiwan's exchange rate fluctuations and export competitiveness. He noted that Trump's push for "de-Sinicization" in supply chains might open opportunities for AI collaboration, enhancing Taiwan's competitiveness.
Hsu expressed concern that the global economic and supply chain transformation could lead to a wave of closures if Taiwan does not accelerate its digital and service transformation. He also addressed the labor shortage in the commercial service industry, suggesting a comprehensive restructuring of the labor force rather than solely relying on migrant workers.
Hsu recommended that relevant groups discuss migrant worker policies in the Legislative Yuan (立法院) to achieve rational and scientific planning.