TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago and Northwestern University held a Taiwan high-tech forum on Tuesday to promote technology cooperation between Taiwan and the US state of Illinois.
CNA reported Wednesday that Taiwanese technology executives and US officials discussed semiconductor development, artificial intelligence trends, and future industrial cooperation. The event was organized with Northwestern University and its Kellogg School of Management.
“Taiwan and the US recently advanced economic cooperation through talks such as the Economic Prosperity Partnership Dialogue and related economic security initiatives,” said Lei Yen-feng (類延峰), director-general of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago.
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) had commented that both sides plan to cooperate on AI supply chains, digital infrastructure, critical minerals, drone supply chains, and technology talent development.
Lei said Taiwan’s economy grew rapidly and recorded an 8.5% growth rate in 2025. He added that Illinois exported more than NT$25.36 billion (US$800 million) in goods to Taiwan last year.
“Illinois values its strong partnership with Taiwan,” said Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity Director Kristin Richards, who praised Taiwan’s innovation ecosystem.
