Taiwan’s plans to build an industrial park complex in the United States, similar to its highly successful domestic science parks, have lawmakers concerned about the potential outflow of industries, talent, and technology. Questioned the matter at the Legislature this Wednesday, National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) Minister Wu Cheng-wen (吳誠文) insisted that advanced manufacturing processes will remain rooted in Taiwan and expanding abroad will be economically beneficial.

Taiwan and the U.S. have completed the fifth round of tariff negotiations, with Taiwan proposing a“Taiwan model” in which it leverages its science park development experience to help the U.S. build similar industrial clusters. KMT Legislator Jonathan Lin (林沛祥) raised concerns about external investment leading to an exodus of industries, talent, and technology. To this, Wu responded that the investment is a strategic move driven by the need to align with U.S. government policies and customer requirements, avoid high tariffs, and strengthen Taiwan’s economic competitiveness. He assured that Taiwan is protecting its key core technologies, but as the semiconductor industry must reach the global market, it must remain open to cooperation.

Multiple lawmakers brought up the potential for brain drain, in addition to asking about the specific measures the NSTC will take to safeguard against corporate espionage and the poaching of high-tech professionals. 

Wu responded that Taiwan is not sending top talent abroad, but rather cultivating local talent in the U.S. that supports global production and manufacturing strategies for Taiwanese companies. He said protecting key technologies and talent is a top priority, and that the NSTC is working closely with the Economic Ministry and Justice Ministry to develop more robust protections for scientific and technological secrets.