The 2nd UK-Taiwan Semiconductor Dialogue, held on 6 September during SEMCON Taiwan 2024, brought together top experts from both nations to advance cooperation in the semiconductor industry.
With the UK Pavilion featuring 24 British semiconductor businesses, discussions centred on talent development, research and development (R&D), and strengthening global supply chains—vital steps as the world grapples with semiconductor shortages and rising geopolitical tensions.
Strengthening the Semiconductor Partnership
The dialogue was co-chaired by Dr. Dave Smith, the UK’s National Technology Adviser, and Susan Chi-Chuan Hu, Taiwan’s Deputy Director General of International Trade Administration.
Both highlighted the importance of deepening ties between the UK and Taiwan, particularly in the semiconductor sector, where both countries have complementary strengths.
The UK, with its expertise in semiconductor R&D and chip design, is a natural partner for Taiwan, which excels in advanced manufacturing.
Focus on Talent and R&D Collaboration
A key focus of the dialogue was expanding collaboration on talent and skills development. This is a crucial move for both nations as they face a growing global demand for semiconductor specialists.
A proposed joint skills programme could provide a significant pipeline of talent, ensuring both the UK and Taiwan remain competitive in this high-stakes industry.
In R&D, both sides explored new funding opportunities, paving the way for collaborations that harness the UK’s innovative strength and Taiwan’s manufacturing prowess.
By focusing on emerging technologies like quantum computing and clean energy, the partnership can drive advancements, ultimately shaping the industry’s future.
“Our vision is to secure the UK’s place in world-leading semiconductor technologies by doubling down on our strengths in chip design, compound materials, and advanced packaging techniques,” said Dr. Smith.
Global Supply Chain Resilience
Another priority was enhancing global supply chain resilience, especially in light of the ongoing chip shortages. The dialogue offered insights from the OECD Semiconductor Informal Exchange Network, where both nations have been active participants.
With supply chain vulnerabilities becoming increasingly apparent, particularly due to geopolitical challenges, a resilient semiconductor ecosystem is essential for both economic security and technological leadership.
UK Pavilion at SEMCON Taiwan
During SEMCON Taiwan 2024, the UK Pavilion showcased 24 British semiconductor companies. These businesses are part of the UK’s broader strategy to strengthen its semiconductor sector, which has been identified as a critical technology priority.
This initiative aligns with the government’s ongoing efforts to promote UK innovation in chip design, silicon photonics, and new material semiconductors.
UK Pavilion at SEMCON Taiwan 2024 |
|---|
| 24 British semiconductor businesses |
| Focus on R&D and talent development |
| Advanced technologies: Quantum computing, clean energy, chip design |
Opportunities for Both Economies
The dialogue marks another milestone in the growing semiconductor partnership between the UK and Taiwan. For the UK, this collaboration supports its goal of positioning itself as a leader in global chip design and architecture.
For Taiwan, the partnership provides an opportunity to strengthen international ties, particularly with a nation focused on expanding its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. As both countries work together, they aim to unlock new opportunities in emerging technologies, fostering a future of shared prosperity.
By building on the success of the UK-Taiwan Collaborative R&D Programme, which has already funded several high-quality projects, the UK and Taiwan will continue to drive tangible economic benefits through this partnership.
The Big Picture
As global competition intensifies, it is crucial that we recognize the significance of strategic partnerships like the UK-Taiwan Semiconductor Dialogue.
Moreover, the dialogue’s focus on talent, R&D, and supply chain resilience highlights the imperative for cooperation in a sector that is crucial to future technological and economic growth. Furthermore, by prioritizing these key areas, the partnership can effectively address the complex challenges that lie ahead.
Consequently, the UK-Taiwan Semiconductor Dialogue is poised to play a vital role in shaping the future of the industry.
The UK and Taiwan are proactively advancing their semiconductor sectors to maintain a leading position in global innovation amid a rapidly changing world.
Sources: THX News, TechUK, Chatham House, UK Parliament & British Office Taipei.
