Taiwan Unveils $510 Billion AI Plan to Become Global Tech Leader by 2040

Taiwan has announced its ambitious "Ten Major AI Infrastructure Projects," targeting over T$15 trillion ($510 billion) in economic value by 2040 as it seeks to position itself as a global artificial intelligence powerhouse. Premier Cho Jung-tai highlighted in a Facebook post that Taiwan will leverage its advanced information and communications technology (ICT) sector and world-leading semiconductor industry, led by TSMC, to transform into a “smart technology island.”

The initiative focuses on three strategic technologies: silicon photonics, quantum computing, and AI robotics. Taiwan aims to dominate the emerging silicon photonics market by aligning chip manufacturing with AI demands and plans to build a quantum technology industry chain to secure future competitiveness. AI robotics development will be bolstered through Taiwan’s robust hardware and ICT supply chains, with major industry support such as the Taiwan AI Robotics Industry Grand Alliance spearheaded by Foxconn Chairman Young Liu.

Additional projects include developing sovereign AI capabilities, building large-scale computing infrastructure, fostering regional AI growth, and integrating AI across industries. The government intends to attract more than T$100 billion ($3.08 billion) in venture capital to accelerate AI innovation and nurture global talent.

By 2040, Taiwan aims to create 500,000 new jobs and establish three world-class AI research labs, solidifying its role as a central hub for AI talent, investment, and technological breakthroughs. This strategic push underscores Taiwan’s bid to lead the next era of global AI development while capitalizing on its semiconductor dominance.