Taiwan’s
economic chief, Minister Kung Ming-hsin, recently advocated for
enhanced partnership with Japan in areas like artificial
intelligence, environmental power solutions, and military security,
CNA reports. This appeal comes amidst a global
acceleration toward disentangling vital manufacturing pipelines
from mainland China.
The
minister’s remarks, delivered at a business collaboration forum in
Taipei, underscored the historically solid commercial relationship
between the two nations. This drive to construct supply chains
independent of Beijing represents a pivotal moment, offering Taipei
and Tokyo a prime opportunity to cement a strategic alliance that
benefits both economies and global stability. He asserted that the
current momentum to establish a “non-China” based production
network necessitates greater joint efforts.
Historically,
the relationship saw Japan injecting capital and sophisticated
electronic technologies into Taiwan, supplying vital materials and
equipment that helped establish Taiwan’s powerful semiconductor
industry. However, Minister Kung noted a shift in recent times,
exemplified by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC). The
contract chip manufacturer selected Kumamoto, Japan, as a major
site for overseas operations—a move that signals an evolution from
unilateral investment to reciprocal development. TSMC’s initial
Kumamoto production facility became operational late in 2024, with
construction already underway for its second plant.
With some
Japanese businesses reducing their presence in China, the highly
complementary economies of Taiwan and Japan should capitalise on
this moment to fortify joint ventures in AI, sustainable energy,
and national security.
Regarding
technology, Minister Kung described computing capacity as
increasingly essential to a country's strength, spurring widespread
investment in massive data centres. He pointed out that Japan’s
commitment to the Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN)
and all-optical communication complements Taiwan’s own goals for
boosting AI innovation.
In the
realm of green energy, Japanese enterprises have been instrumental
in Taiwan’s expansion of solar and offshore wind power.
Furthermore, Taiwanese firms are now partnering with Japanese
counterparts on offshore wind projects within Japan, demonstrating
the maturing reciprocal association.
Finally,
following President Lai Ching-te's plans to bolster Taiwan's
defensive capabilities, including a proposed budget of TWD1.25
trillion (about $39.76bn), Minister Kung sees substantial potential
for Taiwan and Japan to cooperate in the defense sector.
© 2025 bne IntelliNews, source Magazine
