TAIPEI: The Executive Yuan, Taiwan's Cabinet, has officially endorsed an ambitious initiative designed to create a new Silicon Valley in southern Taiwan. The plan aims to develop a network of science and technology industrial parks across Tainan, Chiayi, Kaohsiung, and Pingtung, forming an S-shaped semiconductor corridor. This development is a key governmental priority aimed at fostering a technology industrial cluster and preparing Taiwan for the artificial intelligence (AI) era.
According to Focus Taiwan, the "Greater Southern New Silicon Valley Promotion Plan" intends to expand computing power, attract technological talent, and promote industrial integration. The strategy includes the establishment of a research and development environment enhanced by high computing power, massive storage systems, and AI applications through public-private collaboration. This is expected to spur innovation in AI technology.
The plan also focuses on popularizing AI talent training and applications for small and medium-sized enterprises through initiatives such as the Shalun cybersecurity service base in Tainan and a chip and system integration service platform. A semiconductor technology talent training base will also be established in the southern region. Various government agencies are tasked with developing complementary measures to improve infrastructure, including water and power supply, medical care, transportation, and cultural facilities.
Su Chen-kang, vice minister of the National Science and Technology Council, expressed hopes that coordinated supporting measures will attract major international and domestic companies to establish R and D centers in the region. Efforts to enhance water supply will include the use of recycled water and connecting reservoirs to bolster resilience. Additional measures will focus on connecting regional power grids and promoting green energy solutions, such as photovoltaics and energy-saving technologies.
Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee shared Premier Cho Jung-tai's insights from the Cabinet meeting, highlighting that the plan will capitalize on southern Taiwan's existing strengths in semiconductor technology, biotechnology, medical materials, precision machinery, optoelectronics, and green energy industries. The initiative also aims to fortify Taiwan's drone, space, and smart agriculture sectors, while advancing AI technology research and development capabilities.
The plan positions Taiwan as a leader in AI applications, aiming to accelerate digital transformation across various industries and transition towards net-zero carbon emissions, as emphasized by Premier Cho.