The Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center became the stage yesterday for the opening of SEMICON Taiwan 2025, Asia’s largest semiconductor trade show, which this year celebrates its 30th anniversary under the theme “Leading with Collaboration. Innovating with the World”.
The opening ceremony brought together industry and government leaders, including Premier Cho Jung-tai and Ajit Manocha, President and CEO of SEMI, the global association representing over 3,000 companies and 1.5 million professionals in the semiconductor value chain.
Taiwan, the engine of the global chip supply chain
In his speech, Ajit Manocha highlighted how SEMICON Taiwan has evolved over three decades into a globally recognized platform at the heart of the semiconductor ecosystem.
The executive pointed out that emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum computing are ushering in a new era, emphasizing that despite geopolitical challenges, semiconductors “are the foundation of humanity” and must continue advancing without interruption.
Meanwhile, Premier Cho Jung-tai announced an investment exceeding 30 billion new Taiwanese dollars (NT$) under the “AI Ten Major Infrastructure” initiative, covering strategic areas like silicon photonics, quantum computing, drones, and robotics.
The leader also highlighted that Taiwan’s semiconductor production reached NT$5.3 trillion in 2024 and could surpass NT$6 trillion in 2025, reaffirming the country’s critical role in global supply chain resilience.
The industry’s vision
SC Chien, CEO of the Taiwan Semiconductor Industry Association (TSIA) and Chairman of UMC, emphasized that the sector generated $165.6 billion in 2024 thanks to its comprehensive value chain’s strength.
“Taiwan doesn’t just produce chips; it drives innovation, collaborates globally, and keeps the technological engine of the world moving,” he stated.
Global forums: innovation, sustainability, and strategy
SEMICON Taiwan 2025 hosts over 25 international forums focused on technological innovation, sustainability, and business strategy.
One of the standout events was the CEO Summit, featuring the panel “Navigating What’s Next: Global Opportunities and Taiwan’s Strategic Role”, with participants such as:
- Dr. Tien Wu, CEO of ASE and Chair of SEMI’s International Executive Committee.
- Cliff Hou, President of TSIA.
- Jochen Hanebeck, CEO of Infineon.
- Jim Keller, Silicon Valley legend and current CEO of Tenstorrent.
These executives shared insights on Taiwan’s role in AI innovation, global collaboration, and supply chain evolution.
Simultaneously, SEMI and TSIA organized the Semiconductor Sustainability Summit, addressing topics like AI-driven decarbonization, circular economy, and pathways to net-zero emissions. Among the speakers was Arthur Chuang, Vice President of TSMC, presenting the SEMI Energy Collaborative initiative aimed at accelerating decarbonization across Asia-Pacific.
The exhibition also features the SEMI Forest project, dedicated to reforestation and habitat restoration efforts, demonstrating the sector’s tangible commitment to sustainability.
30 years of innovation with a future vision
With over three decades of history, SEMICON Taiwan is more than an event showcasing technologies; it’s a platform for global cooperation. The 2025 edition runs until September 12, attracting thousands of professionals interested in the latest developments in chips, lithography equipment, critical materials, and solutions for a future driven by AI and quantum computing.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the significance of SEMICON Taiwan in the global semiconductor industry?
It’s one of the sector’s most influential events, connecting industry leaders, manufacturers, and governments to discuss innovation, sustainability, and the future of chip supply chains.
2. Why is Taiwan key to the worldwide semiconductor manufacturing?
Because it hosts giants like TSMC and UMC, along with a complete value chain from design to fabrication and testing, accounting for over 60% of global advanced chip production.
3. What new technological areas are being promoted at SEMICON Taiwan 2025?
Focus areas include silicon photonics, quantum computing, AI, robotics, drones, and sustainable manufacturing practices.
4. How does SEMICON Taiwan contribute to the sector’s sustainability?
Through initiatives like the Semiconductor Sustainability Summit and projects such as reforestation and circular economy efforts, aiming to reduce carbon footprint and promote greener supply chains.
via: semi