Key points
- Taiwan used the Semicon trade show to highlight its role in building “trusted non-red” supply chains, emphasizing its democratic values.
- Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung stressed the strategic importance of semiconductors and AI in bolstering alliances with like-minded democracies.
- Czech Minister Marek Zenisek emphasized the shared values between Taiwan and the Czech Republic, underscoring potential areas for collaboration.
- Increased participation from countries like Costa Rica, along with a first-time African delegation, signals growing interest in diversifying partnerships.
Taiwan skillfully leveraged its position as a global semiconductor leader at this year’s Semicon trade show in Taipei, using the event to advance its diplomatic aims. The show, attended by major global chip companies, provided a platform for Taiwan to showcase its commitment to building stronger alliances with democratic nations.
This strategic approach underscores Taiwan’s efforts to counter China’s diplomatic influence and secure its place in the global technological landscape.
Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung directly addressed the geopolitical implications of the semiconductor industry, characterizing semiconductors and AI as “strategic resources” critical to the creation of reliable supply chains independent of China. This message resonated strongly with attendees, particularly those from countries seeking to reduce their reliance on Chinese manufacturing.
The increased emphasis on geopolitical considerations within the semiconductor industry signifies a shift from purely economic discussions to a more strategic, national security-focused dialogue.
The presence of Czech Minister Marek Zenisek further solidified Taiwan’s growing ties with like-minded democracies in Europe. Zenisek highlighted the shared values of democracy, freedom, and openness between Taiwan and the Czech Republic, emphasizing the natural synergy between the two nations.
This collaborative spirit extends to the potential partnership concerning TSMC’s upcoming factory in Dresden, Germany, demonstrating the tangible benefits of Taiwan’s diplomatic outreach.
Beyond traditional allies, Semicon saw unprecedented participation from countries that previously shifted diplomatic recognition from Taiwan to China. Costa Rica, for example, attended for the first time despite switching allegiances in 2007, and a significant delegation of African tech entrepreneurs participated, reflecting a growing interest in diversifying partnerships beyond established power dynamics.
This broadened participation underscores the increasing global recognition of Taiwan’s technological prowess and its strategic importance in the face of geopolitical uncertainty.
