Semiconductors and Quantum Technology
Semiconductors
The semiconductor industry in Taiwan emerged in the 1970s. Through collaborative efforts between the public and private sectors over the years, the semiconductor industry has evolved into a crucial pillar and driving force for Taiwan’s economic development. Taiwan has become a trusted partner in the global semiconductor supply chain as well. However, given the recent global uncertainties, semiconductors have assumed the status of a strategic resource, presenting new challenges and opportunities for development in Taiwan.
Therefore, Taiwan has initiated the research and development programs in compound semiconductors and angstrom-scale semiconductors since 2021. To address growing demand for semiconductors in electric vehicles and telecommunications, we leverage the existing advantages of silicon-based semiconductor industry and focus on developing core technologies of compound semiconductor. This includes advancements in manufacturing processes, equipment and materials and promote the cross-disciplinary applications of compound semiconductors. Additionally, to establish the foundation for next-generation semiconductors, the Angstrom Semiconductor Initiative invests in the development of advanced components, materials, manufacturing processes and testing technologies for the next decade.
As semiconductors continue to play a pivotal role in driving the development of the global technology industry, the rise of generative AI (GAI) has emerged as a significant force for future innovation. In response, Taiwan initiated the “Taiwan Chip-based Industrial Innovation (CbI) Program” in 2023, seeking to integrate advanced semiconductor technologies and GAI to foster innovations across key industries. The main strategies of CbI program include:
1. Drive industry innovation: Integrate semiconductors and GAI to develop innovative solutions in various industries.
2. Strengthen talent cultivation: Establish CbI centers oversea to attract international talents for R&D activities in Taiwan; enhance R&D infrastructure for domestic universities and research institutes.
3. Accelerate Heterogenous Integration and Advanced Technology Development: Focus on key technologies such as AI-driven design tools, IC design for emerging applications, heterogenous integration.
4. Attract IC Startups and Resources Worldwide: Position Taiwan as a global hub for IC startups by establishing a robust support system and leveraging the exited advantages in manufacturing capability.
Additionally, the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) has promoted the "The Advanced Chip Engineering Design and Fabrication (ACED Fab)" to foster academic research collaboration in the semiconductor field between Taiwan and the United States. NSTC envisions constructing an innovation ecosystem focused on advanced semiconductor research through cross-agency collaboration and strengthened public-private partnerships. Within the long-term framework for talent cultivation and research development in semiconductors, there are plan to expand investment in semiconductor research, attract and nurture international IC design talents, promote the development of the industry and technology, and establish a global semiconductor ecosystem friendly to Taiwan.
Quantum Technology
Recognizing the potential of quantum technology to overcome limitations across various fields, many countries have identified quantum technology as a critical strategic focus for national development, leading to intense competition to invest research resources in this domain.
In response to future global quantum technology revolution, NSTC has integrated industry, government, academia, and research institutes to establish a national quantum team since 2021. This initiative aims to engage top university teams in research and development, promote international collaborations, and connect with domestic industries. At present, the cross-ministry platform has been used to integrate academia, research institutes and industries to develop key quantum components based on semiconductor technology. In order to plan for this long-term high-value scientific research, our country's cutting-edge quantum research and development will focus on projects such as "Quantum Components", "Quantum Computers", “Quantum Algorithm", and "Quantum Communication", with the goal to "construct Taiwan's domestically-produced quantum computers capable of real computation and domestically-produced quantum communication networks with cybersecurity ensured".
Under this development strategy, we will promote Taiwan to become an important partner in global quantum technology, and establish Taiwan's quantum technology industry chain in 2030, setting a new cross-domain R&D culture and practice model.