MIL Asia Pacific Publishing Engine

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On the afternoon of January 22, President Lai Ching-te presided over the sixth meeting of the National Climate Change Committee. In his opening statement, the president stated that facing the challenges of the global net-zero transition and extreme weather, climate governance has become a crucial factor in national security, industrial competitiveness, and social stability. He emphasized that the government will reduce carbon while supporting enterprises and commit to net zero to save the planet, continuing to improve the institutional environment and working with industries and the public to achieve cross-sector collaboration. President Lai also stated that the government will accelerate the promotion of carbon reduction, energy transition, and NDC 3.0 initiatives, and let the world see a more resilient and vibrant Taiwan.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
Today is the sixth meeting of the National Climate Change Committee. First, I would like to express gratitude to all the advisors and committee members who have continued to provide professional advice for some time now, laying a solid foundation for climate governance in Taiwan.
Climate governance and energy transition are not issues that stand alone, independent from national development; they are the core foundations supporting Taiwan’s industrial sustainability and social stability. Therefore, in the new year, we must continue our efforts, and ensure that every transition initiative is more thoroughly institutionalized and implemented.
I want to emphasize that addressing the net-zero wave in global supply chains is a total war with repercussions for the nation’s survival. The net-zero transition is a collective mission in which government, industry, and the public must participate and become partners.
The government will take on the responsibility of establishing a stable institutional environment and incentive mechanisms. At the same time, we need all industries to invest in technological upgrades, and all individuals to implement carbon reduction practices in their daily lives so that Taiwan can seize opportunities in the midst of transitional change.
At the end of last year, COP30 concluded in Brazil. In addition to emphasizing the need to accelerate action, the international community also reaffirmed its consensus on collective global action. To address the challenges of extreme weather and net-zero transition, the government, civil society, and industries must not only fulfill their own respective transition obligations. They must also cooperate across sectors and assume collective responsibility through in-depth collaboration.
Therefore, the government will accelerate the promotion and implementation of net-zero transition in the following key directions:
First, we must pragmatically reduce carbon while supporting enterprises. Now that our carbon fee system has officially taken effect, it will lead enterprises to invest in voluntary carbon reduction plans. The government will launch a pilot carbon emissions trading system, and carefully plan a Taiwan version of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism. The government will support industries, help align with international standards, and turn transition pressures into competitive advantages.
Regarding the energy issues that enterprises are concerned about, I want to emphasize again that based on objective scientific data, Taiwan’s power supply will remain stable. While upholding our net-zero target, the government will continue to actively promote renewable energy and energy decarbonization, maximize green energy, and enhance power grid resilience to ensure an even more stable power supply.
Second, we must firmly commit to net zero to save the planet. At our committee meeting in January last year, we proposed the beta version of NDC 3.0 to the people of Taiwan. The administrative team has continued to listen to suggestions from all sectors and review and improve that plan, and has completed an overall carbon reduction action plan for Taiwan. These more ambitious NDC 3.0 targets demonstrate Taiwan’s firm determination to contribute to the global sustainable transition.
This kind of cooperative spirit cannot be just a concept, but must be implemented in government policy decisions and social participation. Therefore, this first committee meeting of 2026 will review the practical results of cross-sector collaboration:
First, the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Ministry of the Interior, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, and Ministry of Agriculture will jointly report on the interim results and future prospects for net-zero transition in six major sectors. This report documents the impact of the collective efforts of the government, industry, and citizens.
Whether it is the low-carbon transition of the energy and manufacturing sectors, the transformation of residential, commercial, and transportation models, or the expansion of green agriculture, each achievement is concrete proof of the public’s collective cross-sector efforts as the government improves systems, industries introduce technology and capital, and society makes lifestyle adjustments. This proves that Taiwan has not only established a carbon reduction path, but has also demonstrated solid capabilities to execute it.
After that, the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) will report on the implementation and results of community-driven net-zero sandboxes. Among the six major institutional innovations for transition, community-driven initiatives are key to ensuring that policies are implemented effectively.
We have used technological innovation to bring net-zero concepts into neighborhoods, extending net-zero momentum from industry chains to everyday life. When technology is transformed into a tool to solve life problems and promote mutual benefits and well-being, the shared practices of the public become the most solid social foundation for Taiwan’s sustainable development.
Fellow committee members, the climate challenge has no end. As we pursue national security, societal resilience, and investment in the future, climate governance will be the most critical concrete action we can take.
The new year will be a year full of hope and action. Let us forge greater consensus, accelerate our transition, and let the world see a more resilient and vibrant Taiwan. Thank you.
Following his statement, President Lai heard the report on the interim results and future prospects for net-zero transition in six major sectors from Minister of Environment Peng Chi-ming (彭啓明), Vice Minister of Economic Affairs Lai Chien-hsin (賴建信), Deputy Minister of the Interior Tung Chien-hung (董建宏), Minister of Transportation and Communications Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱), and Minister of Agriculture Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季), and the report on the implementation and results of community-driven net-zero sandboxes from NSTC Deputy Minister Lin Faa-jeng (林法正). Afterward, President Lai exchanged views with the committee members regarding the content of the reports.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government today announced the launch of an open tender for the development of the Advanced Construction Industry Building (ACIB) in Tsing Yi under a two-envelope approach, with the tender invitation scheduled to close at noon on April 22.

Covering an area of about three hectares, the ACIB will be the local construction industry’s first multi-storey facility dedicated to the adoption of advanced construction technologies aimed at enhancing productivity and efficiency.

The land is currently used by a low-density steel rebar prefabrication yard under a short-term tenancy. Construction of the ACIB is scheduled to commence in the second half of 2026, with commissioning targeted for 2028.

In May last year the Development Bureau invited the market to submit expressions of interest in the project. It subsequently reviewed seven submissions, mainly from local and Mainland construction industry contractors and operators. The views collected were used to formulate the open tender.

Under a 30-year contract, adopting a Build-Operate-Transfer approach, the successful tenderer will be responsible for project financing, design, construction and operation. Upon expiry of the contract, the whole building – including all manufacturing facilities and equipment – shall be transferred to the Government.

Facilities to be provided shall include no less than 15,000 sq m of floor area for steel rebar prefabrication; no less than 5,000 sq m for Multi-trade Integrated Mechanical, Electrical, & Plumbing (MiMEP) processing; and no less than 5,000 sq m of floor area to be leased to the industry either for steel rebar prefabrication or MiMEP processing.

Aside from the floor area to be leased, the successful tenderer will be responsible for operating the facilities mentioned, and these must have a minimum annual production capacity of 300,000 tonnes of prefabricated steel rebar and 6,000 MiMEP modules.

The tender notice was published in the Government Gazette and uploaded to the bureau website today. Call 3509 8672 for enquiries.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said today it vehemently opposes a resolution adopted by the European Parliament on Hong Kong, and strongly condemns it for using the Lai Chee-ying case to make baseless allegations about Hong Kong and smear its laws safeguarding national security.

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said the European Parliament had made sweepingly generalised and grandstanding comments, completely disregarding the profound historical significance of the National Security Law (NSL) and its undeniably positive impact on Hong Kong.

The statement added that the European Parliament said nothing about the strict enforcement of national security laws by other governments, thereby laying bare its own double standard and despicable political manipulation. It said the European Parliament showed no respect for the independent judgment of Hong Kong’s courts in the Lai Chee-Ying case, and refused to acknowledge the evidence set out in the reasons for the verdict.

The Hong Kong SAR Government stated that it fulfilled its constitutional duty in 2024 by enacting, with broad societal consensus, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), thereby improving the city’s legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security. It said the SNSO’s enactment has enabled Hong Kong’s transition “from chaos to order” and advancement “from stability to prosperity”.

The statement added that in the five years of its implementation the NSL has restored the rights and freedoms Hong Kong citizens could not enjoy during the “black-clad violence” period, and returned livelihoods and the city’s business environment back to normal.

With regard to the conviction of Lai Chee-Ying, the statement said the verdict was entirely free from any political considerations.

It outlined that the court made clear in a well-founded and reasoned verdict that he was not on trial for his political views or beliefs, and iterated that the court made its decision strictly in accordance with the law and evidence, free from any interference and absolutely free of any political considerations.

The statement added that any suggestion that certain individuals or organisations should be immune from the legal consequences of their illegal acts amounts to advocating for special privileges to break the law, which runs contrary to the spirit of the rule of law.

Further, it stressed that the Lai Chee-ying case had nothing to do with freedom of the press, and that the defendants involved had used journalism as a guise over the years to commit acts that brought harm to the country and Hong Kong.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said Lai Chee-ying’s health has been properly cared for, highlighting that the senior counsel representing him said in court that he had been receiving appropriate treatment and care in prison, and that he had made no complaint regarding his custodial arrangements.

The statement added that anyone seeking to use the case to vilify Hong Kong’s rule of law and human rights situation is guilty of twisting the facts and lacks any integrity.

It emphasised that the Hong Kong SAR Government will resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the NSL, the SNSO and other relevant laws safeguarding national security, whilst upholding the rights and freedoms of residents in accordance with the law to ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of the “one country, two systems” principle.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government will carefully study and follow up on the coroner’s verdict on the deaths of passengers in a 2012 vessel collision near Lamma Island.

In a statement after the Coroner’s Court finished reading the inquest verdict today, the Government added that it respects the court’s judgment, and reiterated its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased passengers.

The Government said the Marine Department (MD) will study and follow up on the four recommendations made by the coroner.

Firstly, the coroner recommended that the department have regular engagement with shipbuilders, marine transport service operators and relevant professional bodies, or issue simple guidance notes or clarifications to ensure that they understand the application of relevant rules and regulations.

The MD responded that it had implemented a Local Safety Management system, which has enhanced communication with the industry through the adoption of a proactive approach to risk management.

The second recommendation is to launch a new declaration system requiring vessel owners, before each periodical survey, to confirm whether any alterations have been made since the previous survey.

Regarding this proposal, the MD said it is preparing to introduce a requirement, under the existing ship inspection system, that shipowners must declare “no unauthorised alterations” to vessels prior to a survey.

The MD is also urged to continue its review of seafarers’ working hours and rest arrangements, with a focus on identifying fatigue risks in day-to-day operations. The department should also consult major ferry operators in the process and hold discussions via the Local Vessels Advisory Committee.

The Government said it will review local seafarers’ working environment and conditions, and consult stakeholders thoroughly.

Lastly, the coroner proposed that the MD pass on to the wider trade the recommendations given to Cheoy Lee Shipyards by the coroner. The MD said it will communicate with other shipyards on regarding these recommendations.

Separately, the Government said that following the incident it established a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) in accordance with the CoI Ordinance. An internal investigation was led by the then Transport & Housing Bureau. Expert reports under various investigations were also accepted.

The Government emphasised that it has been diligent in supervising the MD in following up on the recommendations presented, and in fully implementing five categories of enhancements.

Regarding the responsibilities of the MD officers involved, the Government said an internal investigation report was forwarded to the Civil Service Bureau. The latter, in accordance with the report’s recommendations and the Department of Justice’s legal advice, took disciplinary actions and carried out follow-up work.

In addition, two MD officers involved in the incident were prosecuted and sentenced to imprisonment, the Government added.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) today hosted a press conference to launch the 2026 Best AI Awards, officially kicking off Taiwan’s most iconic AI software event. The competition features two main categories: AI Applications and IC Design, with a top prize of NT$1 million. Building on the inaugural event’s mission to catalyze key AI innovations and attract international talent, this year’s awards introduce a new focus: encouraging developers to leverage global resources like GitHub to fine-tune AI models that meet local demands. Furthermore, the MOEA is actively inviting international enterprises to Taiwan to collaborate with the nation’s robust semiconductor supply chain in creating cutting-edge Edge AI solutions. Registration is open from today until March 16, and large enterprises, SMEs, startups, students, and international teams are invited to participate.

Chao-Chung Kuo, Director General of the Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT), stated that the Best AI Awards are not merely about selecting winners, but about building a national-level stage that synergizes AI software innovation with Taiwan’s dominance in semiconductors and IC design. He emphasized that winning teams will receive exclusive priority incentives, including enhanced R&D subsidies, international trade show matchmaking, connections to cross-ministerial investments, and access to startup resources. These measures provide teams with substantive post-competition support to accelerate the formation of industry models and drive smart upgrades across sectors, strengthening Taiwan’s competitiveness in the global AI supply chain.

The inaugural Best AI Awards attracted over 1,000 teams, establishing itself as Taiwan’s largest AI software competition. The event functions as more than just a venue for identifying and promoting innovative technologies; it also acts as a critical bridge connecting teams with industry resources and capital. Several winning teams from the inaugural competition successfully connected with the investment market post-competition. Success stories include Jmem Tek securing NT$180 million in investment, Pulxion Medical Technology receiving an NT$100 million capital injection, and eYs3D Microelectronics, which was actively approached by multiple system manufacturers for partnerships following their win. These results demonstrate the competition’s effectiveness in accelerating technology implementation and fostering industrial cooperation.

Director General Kuo further noted that global AI development is evolving from Discriminative AI, which focuses on judgment and analysis, toward Agentic AI-systems capable of autonomous planning and decision-making. AI is no longer just a passive tool but an intelligent partner capable of actively executing tasks and optimizing workflows. Therefore, this year’s competition will award bonus points for key technologies such as Agentic AI and model lightweighting. The goal is to guide the industry to leverage international resources and Taiwan’s ICT advantages, pushing to integrate AI applications into diverse industries and drive growth through industrial upgrading.

The 2026 Best AI Awards invites students, businesses, and international teams to submit innovative works with industrial potential. The top prize for the student category is NT$300,000, while the company category offers a maximum prize of NT$1 million. The finals are scheduled for April 25, 2026. For detailed information, please visit the official website: www.bestaiawards.com.tw

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

The Energy Administration, in collaboration with the Trade Council of Denmark, the Finland Trade Center, and the Swedish Trade & Invest Council, co-hosted the “2025 Nordic-Taiwan Sustainable Energy Forum” on December 3rd at the GIS MOTC Convention Center. The event convened a diverse group of domestic and international industry representatives, experts, academics, and research institutions to discuss the latest developments in green energy.

Centered on diversified green energy development and the energy transition, The forum on key topics including power system resilience, offshore wind power, geothermal energy, and low-carbon emerging technologies, with the aim of deepening multilateral industry exchanges between Taiwan and the Nordic countries in a shared commitment to global sustainability.

Dr. Chien-hsin Lai, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Economic Affairs, remarked that the government continues to foster renewable energy development through cross-ministerial cooperation and proactive dialogue with relevant industry stakeholders. By providing a wide range of policy initiatives and financial support, the government aims to assist developers and facilitate project development. Additionally, to address the rising electricity demand driven by economic growth and the AI revolution, the government is committed to accelerating green energy deployment while ensuring grid stability for the future demand.

Mr. Peter Sand, Director of the Trade Council of Denmark in Taipei, emphasized Denmark’s role as a longstanding partner in Taiwan’s energy transition. He noted that Denmark has contributed significantly to the sector, accounting for over 50% of Taiwan’s total installed offshore wind capacity. Having become Taiwan’s largest source of foreign investment in 2022, Denmark is on track to reclaim that position this year. He also highlighted the successful Danish-Swedish collaborations in Iceland’s geothermal development, noting that this experience demonstrates how cross-border collaboration and resource integration are vital for developing global energy solutions and addressing climate challenges.

Mr. Lauri Raunio, Director of the Finland Trade Center in Taiwan, highlighted that energy resilience and grid stability are key to a sustainable energy system. Finland’s national grid operator, Fingrid, recorded a transmission reliability rate of 99.9995% in 2024. This not only reflects a highly stable electricity supply but also demonstrates that Finland can effectively manage the intermittency of renewable energy. Finland is willing to share its experience with Taiwan and looks forward to fostering closer technical exchange and cooperation to build a more resilient energy future together.

Ms. Helena Reitberger, Representative of the Swedish Trade & Invest Council, stated that energy policy is not only an issue of infrastructure but also a strategic investment with political and economic significance. Through its “fossil-free competitiveness” initiative, Sweden has successfully driven both energy transition and industrial upgrading. She noted that innovative technologies and a close collaboration between the public and private sectors have been crucial to the green transformation. Ms. Reitberger looks forward to deepening cooperation between Sweden and Taiwan across the energy and technology sectors to accelerate a shared net-zero future.

The forum began with the keynote session on Power System Resilience, featuring insights from Taiwan Power Company, Denmark’s Energinet, Finland’s Wartsila, and Sweden’s Energiforsk. This was followed by Session 1, “Offshore Wind Power,” where Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI)’s Green Energy and Environment Research Laboratories joined Danish industry leaders, Orsted, CIP, and Vestas to share development expertise and project milestones.

For Session 2, “Geothermal Power,” insights were shared by the CPC Corporation, Taiwan, Denmark’s COWI, and Sweden’s Baseload Capital on relevant projects. Session 3, “Low-Carbon Emerging Energy Technologies,” focused on ocean energy and green fuels, with contributions from ITRI, National Taiwan Ocean University, Minesto, and Everllence. The forum brought together over 200 participants from government, industry, academia, and research institutions, who engaged in lively and in-depth discussions on the various topics.

The Energy Administration noted that the global shift toward net-zero has brought shared challenges in energy stability and industrial decarbonization for all nations. By combining Taiwan’s innovative energy policies with the Nordic countries’ leading technologies and expertise, the forum served as a vital platform for industry exchange. It aimed to foster deeper partnerships in key areas such as diversified green energy, system resilience, and carbon reduction technology, to collectively drive a sustainable future for the global energy transition.

Spokesperson
Chung-Hsien Chen, Deputy Director General
Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Tel: 02-2775-7770 / Mobile: 0919-998-339
Email: ctchen2@moeaea.gov.tw

Business Contact
Ju-Ming Cheng, Deputy Director
Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Tel: 02-2775-7778 / Mobile: 0952-279-720
Email: jmcheng@moeaea.gov.tw

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     ​The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government yesterday (January 22) vehemently opposed the so-called resolution adopted by the European Parliament against Hong Kong, and strongly condemned the Parliament for using the Lai Chee-ying case to make baseless allegations about Hong Kong and smear the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), so as to set the record straight.

     A spokesman for the HKSAR Government said, “The European Parliament has made sweepingly generalised and grandstanding comments, completely disregarding the profound historical significance of the HKNSL and its undeniable positive impact on the HKSAR. It has rather distorted the facts and smeared the HKSAR and the HKNSL as well as other laws safeguarding national security in Hong Kong. On the contrary, they never utter a word about the strict enforcement of national security laws by other governments against activities that endanger their national security. This is an entirely despicable political manipulation, and we must sternly denounce wrongdoing of the European Parliament to set the record straight and to expose its shameless ‘double standards’ to the world.”

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region