TAIWAN SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

• Taiwan is one of the world’s leading producers of information and communications technology products.
• The International Institute for Management Development ranked Taiwan 8th out of 67 economies in the World Competitiveness Yearbook released in June 2024.

To realize the government’s Smart Taiwan 2030 vision, which aims to “Make Taiwan Innovative, Inclusive and Sustainable,” the National Science and Technology Council is strengthening cooperation with other ministries as it works to better understand the needs of the country’s diverse populace, integrate innovative technologies into everyday life and open up opportunities for new eco-friendly industries. With science and technology serving as a key driver of economic growth and national progress, the NSTC strives to advance related development by nurturing startups, promoting the nation’s three science parks and supporting academic research. It also implements a range of measures and programs to foster creativity and ensure research focuses on the needs of industry.

The success of Taiwan’s high-tech enterprises is largely attributable to the government’s generous funding of applied scientific development. With government support, the Industrial Technology Research Institute, National Applied Research Laboratories and Institute for Information Industry all played important roles in jump-starting the nation’s rise as a technological powerhouse by conducting research, aiding the private sector with R&D and exploring new technologies.

 Taiwan is a global leader in technology, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing and related industries. It boasts a strong ecosystem that includes research, development, and manufacturing capabilities, with companies like TSMC playing a pivotal role in the global chip supply chain. Taiwan also excels in areas like industrial computing, photonics, and quantum technology, with a focus on AI, IoT, and smart manufacturing. 

Supporting Innovation

ITRI’s expertise in technological innovation is best illustrated by its awards. Over the past 16 years, it has garnered 58 esteemed R&D 100 Awards, as well as 16 Edison Awards since 2017 and eight Clarivate Top 100 Global Innovator recognitions since 2015. The institute has also played a pivotal role in nurturing companies that have gone on to achieve significant success in the global market. Among these are Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. and United Microelectronics Corporation, renowned as leading custom integrated circuit makers worldwide.

Established in 2003, National Applied Research Laboratories (NARLabs) combined 7 national laboratories into an independent nonprofit institute under the National Science and Technology Council. Its four missions are to establish R&D platforms, support academic research, promote frontier science and technology, and foster high-tech manpower. NARLabs strives for "global excellence, local impact.” It endeavors to transliterate academic research results into real business and emerging industries in the hope of making contributions to social welfare.

Key Aspects of Taiwan's Technology Landscape:

• Semiconductor Industry:

  Taiwan is the world's largest semiconductor foundry, with TSMC holding a dominant market share. The island's semiconductor industry is a significant driver of its economy and global technological advancements. 
• Industrial Computing:

  Taiwan has a strong presence in the industrial computer sector, with a 70% global market share. This is attributed to its robust engineering education system and strategic advantages, including close proximity of suppliers and manufacturers, which facilitates rapid prototyping and innovation. 
• Photonics and Quantum Technology:

  Taiwan has made significant strides in photonics and quantum technology, with notable advancements in these fields. The country is investing heavily in research and development and actively engaging in international collaborations to further these technologies. 
• AI, IoT, and Smart Manufacturing:

  Taiwan is increasingly focusing on AI, IoT, and smart manufacturing, with companies investing heavily in research and development in these areas. Government initiatives like "Intelligent Taiwan" and the AI Academy also contribute to this focus. 
• Ecosystem:

  Taiwan's technology ecosystem is characterized by close collaboration between government, academia, and industry. This collaboration fosters innovation and enables Taiwan to remain at the forefront of technological advancements. 
• Education and Talent:

  Taiwan has a strong education system that produces a large number of skilled engineers and IT professionals, which is crucial for its technology industry