TAIPEI (TVBS News) — European business leaders warn of critical vulnerabilities in Taiwan's AI, energy, labor, health, and infrastructure sectors. Henry Chang, chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce (ECCT), called for urgent government action during the release of Thursday's (Nov. 20) position paper, themed "Strengthening Taiwan's Resilience in Uncertain Times," which featured 192 policy issues identified by 25 industry committees.
Chang warned that Taiwan's over-reliance on specific tech sectors creates critical security risks. "Statistics show Taiwan is over reliant on certain tech sectors and trading partners," he said. Despite Taiwan's current AI boom, Chang cautioned, "there is no telling if or how long the AI bonanza will last" amid mounting geopolitical challenges. "Now is the time to make proverbial hay while the sun shines to strengthen Taiwan's whole-of-society resilience."
The government has resolved only 24 percent of nearly 200 policy obstacles identified in previous ECCT reports. National Development Council Deputy Minister Jan Fang-Guan (詹方冠) proposed public-private cooperation to address remaining challenges. Chang formally presented the position papers to Jan during a ceremony followed by media briefings with industry committee co-chairs.
Jan pledged to tackle issues that have remained unresolved for over five years. "It is really our hope to work with ECCT members to make it better and better," he said. The position papers prioritize a human-centered AI framework, a proposed Ministry of Energy, enhanced support for foreign talent, and streamlined visa processes as key reform areas.
Chang praised Taiwan's renewable energy sector as a regional model despite facing typhoons and climate challenges. "Taiwan's renewable energy development has been a model for neighboring countries in Asia Pacific," he said. However, installations are "falling behind official targets" due to market conditions and regulatory barriers. ECCT recommends creating a Ministry of Energy and reforming offshore wind policies.
European investors with US$79 billion (approximately NT$2.46 trillion) in Taiwan investments warn the island must act quickly during the AI boom or risk losing its competitive advantage. Representing 1,000 members from over 400 companies, the ECCT urges Taiwan to "take advantage of its booming economy to shore up resilience in vulnerable areas." ◼
