Premier Cho Jung-tai said that Taiwan must expedite the application of artificial intelligence to meet societal demands and reinforce national competitiveness while ensuring domestic information and communication security.
Cho made the remarks during a May 15 briefing at the Executive Yuan in Taipei City on a new smart robotics initiative, which is anticipated to address challenges brought by Taiwan’s declining fertility rate and aging population. According to the EY, this year Taiwan became a super-aged society, meaning more than 20 percent of the population is aged 65 or older, and the labor force has continued to shrink.
The project, proposed by the Cabinet-level National Science and Technology Council, will entail close collaboration between the council and the Ministries of Digital Affairs, Economic Affairs, Education and Labor to develop AI, which is targeted under President Lai Ching-te’s Five Trusted Industry Sectors initiative.
Smart robots can help alleviate labor shortages and ensure industries remain competitive, the EY said, adding that they could also function as caregivers for senior citizens and conduct dangerous missions during disaster relief efforts.
Smart robotics integrates advanced chips, AI, mechanism design and sensing technology, the NSTC said, adding that Taiwan can leverage its information and communications technology, precision machinery and semiconductor expertise to advance the robotics industry.
Additionally, with top engineers and flexible manufacturing capabilities, Taiwan can rapidly integrate skills and resources to tailor robotic products to market demands. Through supportive regulation, talent cultivation, the development of key technologies and the establishment of industry ecosystems, the government hopes to transform Taiwan into a critical AI hub. (POC-E)
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