TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s technology sector is taking center stage at Viva Tech in Paris this week, drawing top officials and industry giants to its bustling pavilion.

This marks Taiwan’s seventh appearance at the expo, with 29 startups featured under the “Smart Island” initiative, per CNA. Foxconn Chair Young Liu (劉永偉) joined French Secretary of State for AI Clara Chappaz and former Education Minister Sylvie Retailleau in engaging with Taiwanese startups, drawing large crowds.

Liu stopped by before the official opening to offer support to young Taiwan firms. Chappaz and Retailleau followed shortly after, exchanging views with industry leaders.

Chappaz invited Foxconn to deepen its involvement in France, building on a recent MOU the company signed with Thales and Radiall. The move signaled France’s growing interest in expanding AI and semiconductor ties with Taiwan.

Taiwan Representative to France Hao Pei-chih (郝培芝) said the high-profile interest in the pavilion reflects the global recognition of Taiwan’s semiconductor strengths. “This isn’t just about startups, it’s about Taiwan’s deep integration into the global tech ecosystem,” he added.

Hao added that Taiwan’s capabilities in AI computing and chipmaking make it an essential partner as France pursues European leadership in AI. “France knows that behind AI, you need the hardware. That’s where Taiwan excels.”

Sylvie Retailleau noted the complementary strengths of the two countries. France brings academic research and talent, while Taiwan excels in tech transfer and industrial collaboration, she said.

Viva Tech is set to run from Wednesday to Saturday and will host 165,000 attendees, 14,000 startups, and 3,500 exhibitors from around the world.