The Digital Ministry responded to observations made by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt regarding Taiwan’s software industry’s shortcomings and said it secured NT$10 billion (US$310.99 million) from the National Development Fund to establish an "AI Ecosystem."
In a speech at Stanford University in late August, Schmidt shared his analysis of the geopolitical landscape of AI. He said China has become a lost ally for the U.S. in the AI era due to its unchanging political structure. He praised Taiwan’s hardware manufacturing capabilities but said its software sector shortcomings could harm Taiwan’s global competitiveness.
Digital Affairs Deputy Minister and Spokesperson Lin Yi-ching (林宜敬) emphasized that Taiwan’s "AI Ecosystem" will combine computing power, data, talent, and market resources. The ministry is focusing on advancing the software industry by integrating new AI and cybersecurity technologies to boost software development. Lin said the ministry will focus on ensuring Taiwan’s software industry is both innovative and globally competitive, as is crucial given the nation’s small domestic market.