TAIPEI, Feb 15 (Reuters) – The global semiconductor industry is highly complex and requires specialized collaboration rather than dominance by a single country, Taiwan’s top technology official Wu Cheng-wen stated. His remarks follow recent criticisms from former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding Taiwan’s leadership in chip manufacturing.
Taiwan’s Semiconductor Success Story
Wu, head of Taiwan’s National Science and Technology Council, emphasized that Taiwan’s dominance in the semiconductor industry is not a result of taking advantage of other nations but is instead the outcome of decades of effort. Since the 1970s, the government has played a key role in developing the sector, including supporting the founding of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) in 1987, which is now the world’s largest contract chipmaker.
“This shows that Taiwan has invested half a century of hard work to achieve today’s success, and it certainly wasn’t something taken easily from other countries,” Wu stated in a Facebook post.
The Need for Global Collaboration
Each country has its own expertise in semiconductor production. Japan specializes in chemicals and equipment, while the United States excels in chip design and the application of innovative systems. Wu highlighted that the semiconductor industry thrives on a highly specialized division of labor.
“The semiconductor industry is highly complex and requires precise specialization and division of labor. Given that each country has its own unique industrial strengths, there is no need for a single nation to fully control or monopolize all technologies globally,” Wu said.
Taiwan’s Role in the Democratic Supply Chain
Taiwan has positioned itself as a critical partner in the global semiconductor supply chain. Wu reiterated that Taiwan is committed to supporting “friendly democratic countries” by leveraging its semiconductor capabilities to ensure a stable and secure technology ecosystem.
In response to geopolitical concerns, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reaffirmed the island’s role as a reliable partner in the democratic supply chain. Wu echoed this sentiment, stating that Taiwan is willing to serve as a key base to assist other democratic nations in contributing to the semiconductor sector.
Looking Ahead
As technological advancements continue to shape the future of the semiconductor industry, global collaboration remains essential. Taiwan’s stance underscores the importance of shared expertise and innovation rather than attempts by any single nation to dominate the market.
