President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) stated that Taiwan's medical technology sector will soon join its formidable semiconductor and ICT industries to continue building the pillars of national strength. Lai spoke at the opening ceremony of the 19th Nobel Health Care Forum on Sunday, January 11.

The president pointed out that before entering politics, he was a clinician and has never forgotten his responsibility as a member of the medical community. Upon taking office, he established the Healthy Taiwan Promotion Committee, bringing together the medical, technological, and social sectors to promote the health industry. He noted that while the average life expectancy in Taiwan has exceeded 80 years, the number of “unhealthy” years, time that is spent in a wheelchair or requiring care, remains at 8.4. The government's goal is to ensure that Taiwanese people live both longer and healthier.

To this end, the five-year Healthy Taiwan Cultivation Plan, launched in 2025, will employ a budget of NT$48.9 billion (US$1.5 billion) to cover talent development, improvement of the medical environment, smart healthcare, social responsibility, and healthcare sustainability. Under the plan, 197 smart healthcare-related projects were approved last year, aimed at improving clinical processes and enhancing the efficiency and quality of healthcare services.

President Lai stated in an interview that, "The semiconductor, ICT, or general technology industries are supporting and shielding Taiwan. This isn't just about any single company; it's an ecosystem, a protective network. I believe the next sector with similar potential is the combination of healthcare and technology — a powerful alliance."

Lai also pointed out the government’s promotion of industrial development through legislation, including revising the Act for the Development of Biotech and Pharmaceutical Industry in 2021 and enacting regenerative medicine-related legislation in 2024. These updates will include regenerative medicine, precision medicine, and digital and smart healthcare in incentive programs, providing support measures such as investment, R&D, and talent retention.