TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Tuesday that Taiwan is projected to become one of the world's 20 largest economies next year, citing strong growth forecasts and the country's increasingly important role in the global AI supply chain.
Lai said this year’s Computex Taipei theme, “AI Together,” highlights that as AI development enters its next stage, it requires collaboration among like-minded and trustworthy partners worldwide, per CNA. He said recent investment expansions by major technology companies demonstrate strong international confidence in Taiwan’s industrial capabilities and democratic system.
The president said Taiwan’s economic performance continues to strengthen, with the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics raising its full-year growth forecast to 9.64%, CNA reported. He added that first-quarter growth reached 14.55%, the highest level in 48 years, while Taiwan’s stock market capitalization rose to US$4.95 trillion (NT$155.67 trillion), ranking it fifth globally.
Lai said these achievements reflect the combined efforts of the technology sector, manufacturers, small and medium-sized enterprises, and workers. He added that they demonstrate Taiwan has become an indispensable force in the global development of AI.
To maintain competitiveness in the AI era, Lai said the government is advancing major industrial policies, including the “Ten Major AI Infrastructure Projects,” and aims to train 500,000 AI application professionals by 2040, according to CNA.
Lai said the government has recently promoted tax incentives, optimized the investment environment, and advanced the Taiwan Chip-based Industrial Innovation Program to encourage global companies to invest in Taiwan and jointly develop the next-generation technology blueprint.
Lai said the government will continue strengthening key foundations for growth, including talent, water resources, electricity, and land supply. He added that power stability will be maintained through 2032, supported by ongoing infrastructure expansion and the second energy transition.
The president said AI growth reflects Taiwan working with trusted global partners to build a secure, resilient, and prosperous technological future, while ensuring that local industries, families, and future generations share in its benefits. He said Taiwan will continue innovation-driven development and strengthen resilience through cooperation with industry, academia, and international partners, becoming a democratic model that balances technological prosperity with social well-being.
