Taiwan’s Lai says AI computing demand requires stronger global chip cooperation

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te emphasized on Tuesday that Taiwan will continue to be a stable and reliable technology partner for the world. Taiwan, home to TSMC, the world's largest contract chipmaker, has built a strong semiconductor industry rooted in democracy and the rule of law. This has allowed Taiwan to consistently meet global demands for chips, particularly in the rapidly growing AI computing market.

During the Semicon trade show in Taipei, attended by executives from major tech companies like Microsoft and Alphabet Inc's Google, Lai stressed that AI computing power requires advanced chips and global collaboration. Recognizing the risks of over-concentrating chip manufacturing in one place, Taiwan has invested heavily in building a diversified supply chain. TSMC is currently investing $265 billion to set up factories in Arizona, the United States, as part of this strategy.

US officials have expressed concerns about Taiwan's semiconductor dominance, with former President Trump criticizing Taiwan for allegedly "stealing" American semiconductor business. However, Taiwan's government maintains that these criticisms are unfair. In a pre-recorded video message played at the conference, US Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg noted that semiconductors will shape the future of AI, defense capabilities, and the global economy.

He highlighted Taiwan's investment in the US as a way to build a more resilient supply chain capable of withstanding various challenges, including natural disasters, pandemics, and geopolitical shifts.