On the evening of December 12, the Tainan City Government, in collaboration with the International Convention Center Tainan (ICC Tainan) and the Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City, hosted the “2025 Shalun Spotlight Networking Dinner” at the ICC Tainan Special Exhibition Area.

 

Under the theme “Silicon Island: The Rise of the South,” the event featured a keynote address by Wu Cheng-wen, Minister of the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC). He was joined by Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-cher, Deputy Mayor Chao Ching-hui, Southern Taiwan Science Park (STSP) Bureau Director-General Cheng Hsiu-jung, and Lu Hui-chu, Director of the Kaohsiung Office of the International Trade Administration. The gathering brought together over 300 representatives from industry, government, academia, and research institutions to discuss critical issues such as AI, smart manufacturing, and talent sustainability, showcasing the momentum of industrial upgrading and urban transformation within the “Southern S-Corridor.”

 

The event received strong support from key organizations, including the Southern Taiwan New Silicon Valley Promotion Office, Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA), the Green Energy Technology Demonstration Site (established by ITRI under the Ministry of Economic Affairs), and the Shalun Cybersecurity Service Base (established by the Administration for Digital Industries). Together, these entities are consolidating the collaborative energy between the Southern Technology Corridor and the international innovation ecosystem, marking a new chapter for the “Southern Silicon Island.”

 

In his opening remarks, Mayor Huang Wei-cher emphasized: “Tainan is the only city in the world with mass production of 3nm chips, and the output value of the Southern Taiwan Science Park leads the nation. The City Government will continue to work with the central government to promote the ‘Ten Major AI Constructions’ through R&D subsidies, investment attraction, and international cooperation. From computing power and cybersecurity to smart transportation and healthcare, we want these advancements to be visible and accessible to our citizens. By integrating the STSP, Shalun, and Liuying parks, we are building Tainan into Taiwan’s next international technology hub.”

 

From Recovery to Reality: Shalun as an Emerging MICE Hub
Yeh Tai-min, CEO of ICC Tainan, reflected on the center’s journey: “When we opened in 2022, the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) industry was reeling from the pandemic. International activities were restricted, and the future was uncertain. However, with the long-term support of the International Trade Administration, the Tainan City Government, and local industries, we persevered through the toughest stages, gradually bringing the lights—and the people—back to this venue.”

 

Following the 2024 “Tainan 400” and “Taiwan Lantern Festival in Tainan” series, a wave of international trade shows, cultural events, and city celebrations have moved to Shalun. These events have drawn large numbers of domestic and international visitors and professional buyers to ICC Tainan for the first time, strengthening the link between “Tainan,” “Shalun,” and “International MICE,” and laying the foundation for future bids for global conferences.

 

Accelerating in 2025: International Exhibitions and Talent Sustainability
As the global MICE market returns to growth in 2025, ICC Tainan is shifting its focus from simply “bringing people in” to “building industrial networks.” Notably, the Asia-Pacific Agri-Tech Expo & Forum, organized by Informa Markets, moved from northern Taiwan to Tainan in 2024 and has chosen ICC Tainan again for 2025. This event serves as a vital platform for smart agriculture and electric machinery technology.

 

Additionally, the GIS Group, in partnership with central and local authorities, launched the inaugural “Southern Talent Sustainability Expo × Energy-Saving Smart Transformation.” Focused on HR empowerment, net-zero energy saving, and smart transformation, the expo collaborated with the 104 Career Fair to connect over 100 companies with young talent. This initiative highlights the dual advantages of the South: a high-tech career path combined with a livable lifestyle.

 

Looking Toward 2026: A New Starting Point for the South
2026 is set to be a milestone year for Shalun’s international visibility. ICC Tainan will host the 57th Asia-Pacific Academic Consortium for Public Health (APACPH 2026) Conference, co-hosted by National Cheng Kung University and the Tainan City Government. The event will bring together leading public health and health-tech experts from across the Asia-Pacific, sparking new waves of cross-border collaboration.

 

The dinner concluded in a warm and vibrant atmosphere, with guests engaging in deep discussions on AI urban applications, biomedical technology, cybersecurity, and international networking. The 2025 Shalun Spotlight Networking Dinner was more than a year-end celebration; it symbolized Tainan’s steady progress toward becoming a global technology hub. Guided by President Lai Ching-te’s vision of a “Balanced Taiwan,” ICC Tainan continues to work with all sectors to establish the South as a premier center for life and employment, driving economic prosperity and a high quality of life for all.

TAINAN, TAIWAN — The inaugural “Formosa Wine & Dine: International Gastro-Party” is set to make a spectacular debut at the East Plaza of ICC Tainan from December 12 to 14. This free-entry event invites the public to immerse themselves in an exotic world of fine wines and gourmet cuisine, featuring over 80 premium brands during the most festive season of the year.

 

The festival features themed international zones showcasing renowned brands and flavors from Taiwan, Japan, France, Germany, and Australia. Attendees can embark on a global tasting journey—from refined Japanese sake and elegant French wines to bold German beers, distinctive Australian vintages, and innovative Taiwanese craft brews. Beyond the tastings, the event will highlight the rich culinary cultures and terroirs of various global cities.

 

Complementing the drinks is a curated selection of winter delicacies. Highlights include signature dishes from Michelin Bib Gourmand-recommended vendors, exclusive creations from the Oddity Food Truck, and award-winning breads crafted by Shih-Chun Yang (Brave Bakery), a champion of the World Christmas Bread Competition (Panettone World Cup).

 

The festivities extend beyond the palate with an immersive nighttime party atmosphere. 44 Bit Records will host a DJ lineup, kicking off Friday (Dec 12) with the groovy rhythms of Disco, Funk, and Soul, followed by a high-energy set on Saturday (Dec 13) for all “party animals” to raise their glasses and dance.

 

In collaboration with the Taiwan Street Art & Culture Development Association, the event will also feature a rotating lineup of street performers, including diabolo, interactive juggling, flair bartending, fire dancing, and a special performance by World Yo-Yo Champion Yang Yuan-Ching.

 

For a touch of romance under the stars, the Starry Sky Cinema will screen The Trip to Italy on Saturday evening and Chef on Sunday. Adding to the visual landscape is a large-scale installation, “UJU—The Mountain Giant,” by artist Chen Pu, the creator of the viral “Alley Niau” IP from the Creative Expo Taiwan.

 

Early bird registrants will be entered into a lucky draw for a chance to win hotel stay vouchers and local gift sets. Detailed information is available on the official website and social media platforms.

 

Warning: Don’t Drink and Drive. Use a designated driver to get home safely.

 

Event Information：
Dates: Friday, Dec 12 – Sunday, Dec 14, 2025
Hours: Fri 14:30–21:30 | Sat & Sun 16:00–21:30
Location: East Plaza, ICC Tainan (No. 3, Sec. 3, Guiren 12th Rd., Guiren Dist., Tainan City)
票務與更多資訊：
Official Website：https://fwdtw.com/
FB：https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61581721211840
IG：https://www.instagram.com/fwd__tw/
Organized by：G-Concept, ICC Tainan
Admission: Free Entry (Wine & Dine Package Sets also available for purchase)
Ticketing/Registration：https://www.accupass.com/event/2510300903581885470990

 

News link：https://www.ettoday.net/news/20251201/3075093.htm

The representative work of the 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival in Tainan, “Spirit in Motion,” has been honored with the Gold Award at the 2025 Berlin Design Award in Germany. Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che today (11th) commended the Cultural Affairs Bureau staff, as well as the creative team led by Artistic Director Chen Yi-chieh and Music Director Wang Hsi-wen, during the city government meeting. He stated that this international accolade not only honors the artists but also symbolizes Tainan’s cultural creativity and the city’s aesthetic excellence.

 

Huang noted that after a 16-year hiatus, Tainan hosted the Taiwan Lantern Festival again last year (2024), coinciding with the city’s 400th anniversary—a pivotal moment where Tainan’s past and future converged. The festival served as a platform not only for Taiwanese citizens to rediscover Tainan but also for the world to witness its cultural charm.

 

Huang Wei-che remarked that even as we approach the end of 2025, the fact that the 2024 work “Spirit in the Gaze” continues to win international accolades, placing Tainan on the global stage, is deeply moving.

 

The Cultural Affairs Bureau noted that “Spirit in the Gaze,” exhibited in the “City of Light” high-speed rail zone during the 2024 Taiwan Lantern Festival, captivated audiences with its stunning light and sound effects. Artist Chen Yijie served as artistic director and Wang Xiwen as music director for this work. Integrating AI, 3D projection, and XR technologies, it reinterprets Tainan’s history and faith traditions. Through contemporary methods, it embodies a spirit of diverse co-creation, fully showcasing Taiwanese culture’s innovative appeal and cross-generational value.

 

The Cultural Affairs Bureau noted that Tainan possesses profound cultural heritage. “Spirit in Motion” uses art to narrate stories and technology to preserve memories, allowing global audiences to experience the depth and soul of Tainan’s culture. Its success on the international stage signifies that Tainan’s urban culture has reached new heights, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation. Moving forward, the city government will continue supporting outstanding artistic creations, positioning Tainan as a stage where more cultural creativity can flourish.

 

News link：https://www.tainan.gov.tw/News_Content.aspx?n=13370&s=8779722

The Executive Yuan officially approved the “AI New Technology – Smart Robotics Program” this year, announcing that the “Smart Robotics Industrial Cluster” will be based in Liuying, Tainan. To further explore Taiwan’s AI robotics industry layout and development direction, the Tainan City Economic Development Bureau will host the AI Smart Robotics Industry Development Forum on Tuesday, October 28, at 1:00 PM at ICC Tainan. The forum will gather experts from industry, government, and academia to deliver keynote speeches analyzing global AI robotics trends and examining how Taiwan can leverage its unique advantages within the robotics value chain to build ecosystems and expand globally.

 

In line with the strategic objectives announced by the Executive Yuan, the Tainan City Government is fully aligning with central government policy. Plans include establishing the Smart Robotics Innovation and Application R&D Center at ITRI’s Liujia campus to create a manufacturing, R&D, and testing hub, and setting up a Smart Robotics Research Center in Shalun focused on talent cultivation and demonstration fields. Through R&D collaboration, industry clustering, and field validation, Tainan aims to position Taiwan competitively on the global stage.

 

According to the Economic Development Bureau, the forum will center on “Building Taiwan’s AI ROBOT Innovation Hub and Connecting Global Industrial Ecosystems.” Experts from academia and industry—including Shihdai Group and Solomon Technology—will lead two panel discussions:

 

● Taiwan’s Model for the AI Robotics Value Chain: From Technological Innovation to Global Expansion

● Taiwan AI ROBOT Innovation Linking Global Ecosystems

 

The event will provide a platform for exchange across sectors, addressing themes such as global AI trends, cross-domain applications of smart technologies, industrial upgrades, and integration with Tainan’s existing industrial clusters. It aims to consolidate consensus around Tainan’s robotics ecosystem, pooling resources and talent to solidify the city’s position as Taiwan’s AI capital.

 

The forum is free of charge, with investment-related information on Tainan available onsite. The Tainan City Economic Development Bureau invites enterprises and investors to register and join this key dialogue with robotics ecosystem leaders—gaining first-hand insights into business opportunities and strategic partnerships in the AI robotics industry.

 

News Link: https://www.tainan.gov.tw/News_Content.aspx?n=13371&s=8769716#

Get ready for a culinary celebration as the 2025 Tainan International Tea, Wine, Coffee & Food Expo makes its grand debut in Taiwan’s cultural heart, Tainan! From September 5 to 8, 2025, the Tainan Convention Center will host this exciting leg of the renowned F&B TAIWAN series, a traveling food and beverage extravaganza. For the first time, this vibrant expo brings together the best of tea, wine, coffee, and food industries, creating a dynamic platform for trade, networking, and indulgence in Tainan’s rich gastronomic heritage.

 

Over 145 Vendors and 260 Booths: A Feast for Food and Drink Lovers

The 2025 Tainan Expo combines two major events: the Tainan International Tea, Coffee & Food Expo and the Tainan International Wine Expo, featuring over 145 vendors and 260 booths showcasing the hottest trends in food and beverage. Expect everything from premium coffee beans and teas to brewing equipment, packaged foods, sauces, and cutting-edge baking machinery. The Tainan Bakery Association will also spotlight local bakeries, offering a delightful array of treats for every palate.

 

Must-Visit Exhibitors

• GK Coffee (Meizhen International Co., Ltd., Booth 402): Globally acclaimed with a 98-point score from Coffee Review, offering a world-class coffee experience.
• Yiran Tea (Booth 217): Award-winning tea brand, celebrated for its top-rated Red Rhyme tea in competitions.
• Baicheng Machinery (Booth 223): Known as the “TSMC of food machinery,” showcasing automated solutions for bakery production lines.
• Aitafei Food Co., Ltd. (Booth 226) & Lixiaolu Bakery (Booth 228): Delightful handcrafted pastries and gift boxes with charming, high-quality packaging.

 

Tainan International Wine Expo: A Toast to Global and Local Flavors

Making its Tainan debut, the Tainan International Wine Expo is Taiwan’s largest traveling wine showcase, spotlighting four key categories: spirits/whiskey, wine, sake, and beer/fruit wine. Discover the latest trends, international labels, and local gems that energize Tainan’s wine scene.

• Kaihe Co., Ltd. (Booth 715): Unveils the “Heart of the Cellar” sake series, a unique Taiwan-Japan collaboration where consumers vote on rice, yeast, and label designs.
• Baishui Fanghua Wine Co., Ltd. (Booth 503): Showcases Lala Mountain Peach Wine, a refreshing blend of sweet and tart Taiwanese flavors.
• Future Liquor Co., Ltd. (Booth 710): Celebrates 2025 World Gin Awards wins (2 silvers, 1 bronze) with its signature gins—Log, Vent d’Amour, and Cuvée Vieille—highlighting Taiwan’s natural essence.

 

Tasting Workshops and Talks: Dive into the World of Flavors

To elevate the experience, the expo hosts the Tasting Lab, a series of engaging workshops including Tea Talks, Coffee Masterclasses, and Wine Tasting Sessions, led by industry experts who’ll guide you through the artistry and stories behind tea, coffee, and wine.

 

Tea Talks Highlights

• Miao Yuanqing & Lin Fengxuan (Shangchadang Premium Pu’er): Explore the rich flavors of Pu’er tea.
• Xu Shuwen (Sometimes Tea): Discusses the cultural and industrial impact of Taiwan’s iconic bubble tea.
• Huang Jialong (Wenzhengtang Tea Academy): Connects traditional tea utensils to ancient Chinese art and literature.

 

Coffee Masterclasses

• Chen Yu’an (Alishan Flying Squirrel Coffee): Shares how Tsou tribal communities elevate coffee through the “Best of Cou” evaluation, boosting regional branding.
• Liu Peiyi (Coffee Spoon Bean Hunter): Traces the evolution of Taiwanese coffee with tastings of local beans.
• FuYu Café: Offers insights on carving a niche in the competitive coffee industry.

 

Wine Tasting Sessions

• Shiyi Co., Ltd. (Booth 616): Embark on a bourbon whiskey journey with the J. Henry family’s craft story.
• Taiwan Scotch Malt Whisky Association (Booth 713): SMWS Taiwan President Murphy guides a tasting of three exclusive whiskies.
• SAKE & SPIRITS OF JAPAN (Booth 517): SSI-certified sake sommelier Chen Xiaorou compares sake and shochu in two immersive sessions.
• Ling Xinyuan (Taiwan Wine Academy) & Lin Chuankai (Gueitian Hotel Sommelier): Introduce beginners to wine culture with approachable, expert-led courses.

 

Exclusive Tainan Perks: Lucky Draws and Convenient Services

To mark its Tainan debut, the expo offers a Lucky Draw for Chanchao members spending over NT$1,500, with prizes worth over NT$200,000 up for grabs across four days! For easy access, free shuttle buses will run between Tainan city and the convention center. Committed to safety, the event promotes “Don’t Drink and Drive” and partners with Taiwan Designated Driver for exclusive Tainan discounts, ensuring a worry-free visit.

 

Join the 2025 Tainan Tea, Wine, Coffee & Food Expo!

Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in Tainan’s ultimate food and drink experience at the Tainan Convention Center. For more details, booth guides, or to sign up for workshops, visit the official website or contact the organizers. Let’s celebrate Tainan’s culinary scene and uncover the world of tea, wine, and coffee together!

● Tainan Int‘l Tea, Coffee & Food Show 2025 Web
● Tainan Int‘l Wine & Spirits Festival 2025 Web

At this pivotal moment of technological transformation and talent advancement in Southern Taiwan, the inaugural “Southern Talent Sustainability & Smart Energy Transition Expo” officially opened today (July 18) at the ICC Tainan. Building on the momentum of the 2024 Southern Semiconductor Forum – Southern Silicon Island Talent Sustainability, the expo focuses on three major themes—HR Empowerment, Net-Zero Energy Efficiency, and Smart Transformation—bringing together central and local governments, industry, academia, and research sectors. It is the first professional exhibition in Southern Taiwan dedicated to talent and sustainable development.

 

Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-Che, speaking at the opening ceremony, emphasized that with the progress of the “Greater Southern Silicon Valley Initiative”, Tainan has become a critical hub for semiconductor and AI development. Beyond industrial upgrading, the city government continues to prioritize governance and citizens’ quality of life, leveraging AI and digital technology to create a safe, resilient, and sustainable smart city.

 

A special Tainan Smart City Pavilion was established at the expo, showcasing cross-departmental initiatives. The Economic Development Bureau highlighted the Shalun Smart Green Energy Science City MaaS platform, which uses AI to optimize public transit routes, integrate green mobility options, and enhance both convenience and sustainability. The Environmental Protection Bureau presented AI image recognition systems to monitor truck violations and illegal dumping with e-fence alerts, significantly improving enforcement efficiency. The Transportation Bureau introduced upgraded Smart Poles, combining parking sensors with EV charging, signage, and ticketing functions, setting a benchmark for next-generation roadside infrastructure.

 

The Health Bureau featured its Health Cloud Platform, integrating community health stations with InBody monitoring devices to provide real-time data and personalized exercise advice. Visitors also experienced AI-powered movement assessment systems for smart healthcare applications. Meanwhile, the Smart Development Center presented its award-winning SOA Urban Data Exchange Platform, which enhances city service response through cross-agency data integration, earning recognition at the 2024 Smart City Innovation Awards.

 

Running from July 18–20, the expo features 40+ professional forums with participation from leading companies and institutions including Innolux and ITRI. Discussions span from ESG best practices and AI transformation strategies to technical exchanges and talent development, addressing core drivers of future economic growth.

 

The event has also attracted representatives and investors from the U.S., Canada, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia, underscoring the international visibility and investment appeal of the Greater Southern Silicon Valley initiative. Through this expo, Tainan not only showcases its strengths in smart governance and sustainable development but also embodies the spirit of “The More Local, The More Global”, propelling Southern Taiwan’s economic momentum onto the world stage.

 

News Link: https://money.udn.com/money/story/5635/8882084

The 9th Asia Agri-Tech Expo & Forum officially opened at ICC Tainan in Shalun Science City, running from June 11 to 13. Over 30,000 professionals and buyers from Taiwan and abroad are expected to attend. Under the direction of Mayor Huang Wei-che, the Tainan City Government’s Agriculture Bureau and Economic Development Bureau jointly launched the Tainan Smart Agriculture Pavilion, showcasing local agri-tech startups and innovative solutions that highlight the city’s strengths and potential in smart agriculture.

 

Mayor Huang attended the event in person, visiting several booths and noting that the Asia Agri-Tech Expo & Forum had previously been held only at Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center. Thanks to Tainan’s 400th anniversary celebrations last year, the city successfully persuaded Informa Markets to bring the show south for the first time—a move that received overwhelming positive feedback. With the event continuing at ICC Tainan this year and attracting even more major agri-tech companies from Taiwan and overseas, Tainan is increasingly recognized as a leading stage for agricultural innovation and smart applications.

 

Among the exhibitors is Yong Hong Biotech, best known in Taiwan for its livestock feed additive brand “Eurofeed.” The company is presenting locally developed enzyme, probiotic, and phytogenic additives designed to boost animal growth, regulate immunity, and reduce reliance on antibiotics. Chairman William Chung explained that one of its fermentation-based additives, validated by Taiwan’s Agricultural Technology Research Institute, can reduce livestock waste odor by 60% by improving protein digestion and preventing the formation of ammonia and hydrogen sulfide.

 

Mayor Huang emphasized that Tainan is both a technology hub and an agricultural stronghold. The city government has long supported efforts to reduce livestock odor, and he encouraged farms to adopt locally developed feed solutions to improve both regulatory compliance and community living conditions.

 

At the Smart Agriculture Pavilion, Mayor Huang also highlighted several cutting-edge initiatives:

1. The Industrial Technology Research Institute’s Green Energy division has developed dry anaerobic digestion technology now applied at the Liuying Baong Biogas Power Plant.
2. AeroSense Technologies, with support from Tainan’s Shalun office, is deploying drone spraying solutions for farmland, aquaculture ponds, and even solar panel cleaning.
3. GreenAlgae Biotech is applying microalgae technology to create natural enzyme-based pest control and aquaculture feed that strengthens immunity—immediately drawing attention from industry leaders including Su Chih-fen, Chair of the National Animal Industry Foundation, and former Council of Agriculture Minister Tsao Chi-hung.

 

Mayor Huang reiterated that the city has invited local farmers’ associations and agricultural businesses to actively explore partnerships at the expo. “Integrating technology into agriculture is about improving farmers’ incomes,” he said. “It’s not only about making agricultural products delicious—it’s about making them globally competitive. This is the key step for Tainan to enter a new era of agriculture.”

 

News link：https://reurl.cc/9nkznd

Accompanied by the powerful and soul-stirring beats of Tainan’s internationally renowned Ten Drum Art Percussion Group, the 2025 Taiwan International Plastics, Rubber & Composite Material Fair (hereafter referred to as Plastics Material Taiwan) opened spectacularly at ICC Tainan. The layered rhythms of drums large and small formed a majestic symphony—just like the theme of the plastics and rubber industry—where upstream, midstream, and downstream manufacturers collaborate to create an annual output of over NT$300 billion.

 

Huang Ying-Wen, Vice Chairman of the Taiwan Plastics Industry Association, stated in the opening remarks: “There are approximately 7,750 plastics manufacturers in Taiwan, employing about 155,000 people, making it the third-largest industry within Taiwan’s manufacturing sector.”

 

Tainan Deputy Mayor Chao Ching-Hui also emphasized that the plastics and rubber industry is a crucial cluster in Tainan, with about 1,208 manufacturers. Thanks to the support of the International Trade Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs, the export value reaches NT$62.2 billion annually. Mayor Huang Wei-Che of Tainan places great importance on the export of plastics, rubber raw materials, and related application materials.

 

On opening day, despite the heavy rain, many professional buyers from around the world, along with international media invited by organizer Venturap Conference & Exhibition, and industry professionals, showed up to attend the exhibition. Water is a key resource in the chemical industry, and although Taiwan does not produce crude oil, it has succeeded in developing a strong plastics and rubber industry—thus the opening day rain is seen as a symbolic blessing for the sector.

 

Wu Wen-Yao, Director of Venturap, said in his speech: “PMT is a particularly challenging show. Our team specializes in launching new exhibitions and organizing Taiwan pavilions for overseas export. We are especially grateful to the International Trade Administration for its 2024 New Exhibition Support Program, and also thank Tainan City Government and various associations for their support.”

 

The goal of this exhibition is to become Taiwan’s only international professional trade fair focusing on plastics, rubber raw materials, and composite materials. Leveraging its international network, the organizer invited major global industry media including Japan’s The Nikkan Kogyo Shimbun, Spain’s Interempresas Media, Poland’s PLASTECH, Korea’s The Korea Industry Daily, and Thailand’s Plas & Pack to Taiwan for in-depth coverage and interviews.

 

In addition, several Indonesian plastics and recycling materials associations came to Taiwan for exchanges, expanding cooperation potential across the Asia-Pacific region. Notably, the Hong Kong Plastic Industry Association also formed a delegation to exhibit, showcasing strong interaction and market connections between Hong Kong and Taiwan industries.

 

The exhibition venue is divided into the following zones:

A. Raw Materials & Post-Processing Products

B. Processing Machinery & Equipment

C. High-Value Industry Products

N. Digital Transformation & Industrial Software

S. Associations & International Media

 

A total of 110 key exhibitors are participating, including Fong Kee, Fu Chun Shin, Chang Chun Plastics, BASF Taiwan, and more.

 

PMT Summit – Materials Industry Innovation Forum

Jointly organized by Venturap Conference & Exhibition Co., Ltd. and the Plastics Industry Development Center, this is a key featured event held concurrently with the 2025 Taiwan International Plastics, Rubber & Composite Material Fair.

 

To accommodate international guests, the organizer thoughtfully provided AI-powered real-time translation, displayed live on the presentation screen. During the keynote by Mr. Laurent Poisson, Area Sales Manager of PINETTE PEI, the translation was in full effect, allowing attendees to stay engaged and follow along with ease.

 

Lee Kuan-Chih, Director-General of the SMEA, Ministry of Economic Affairs, stated:
The government’s various innovation and development programs for SMEs especially focus on supporting the manufacturing sector. The initiative revolves around three main pillars:

1. Digital Transformation – introducing AI tools to address labor shortages and cost issues, with online training course subsidies.

2. Net-Zero Transition – encouraging energy conservation, providing preferential loans to help upgrade equipment, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.

3. Industrial Upgrade – helping SMEs enhance value and differentiation to compete globally, achieve supply chain integration, and elevate the industry.

 

Hsiao Yao-Kuei, General Manager of the Plastics Industry Development Center,
Reflected on the long history and importance of Taiwan’s plastics industry. He pointed out the major challenges the industry has faced in recent years, particularly price competition from overcapacity in China and uncertainties from tariff negotiations—both of which are significant “headwinds” impacting key export markets.

 

He also mentioned two emerging challenges:

1. The upcoming EU carbon tariffs (CBAM)

2. A possible Global Plastics Treaty that could limit new plastics production and enforce Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

 

To tackle these issues and ensure resilience and forward-looking development, he proposed that Taiwan’s plastics industry should focus on:

• Sustainability – especially in the use of recycled materials
• Digitalization – to preserve know-how and boost efficiency
• High-Value Product Development – targeting certified and advanced applications

 

He noted that the government is actively assisting SMEs with these transitions through various support programs. The two-day forum features 20 speakers, and full information is available on the official forum website.

 

News Link:https://money.udn.com/money/amp/story/7369/8787544

To deepen students’ understanding of the latest trends in the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) industry, a group of 30 students and faculty members from the Department of International Business at Chang Jung Christian University (CJCU) visited the ICC Tainan. Led by Associate Professor and Department Chair Dr. Chuang Li-Min, and Professor He Yi-Hui, the delegation engaged in an insightful academic-industry exchange.

 

Dr. Chuang highlighted that the visit coincides with Taiwan hosting the 2025 IAPCO Annual Meeting and General Assembly in Taipei. Organized by the International Association of Professional Congress Organisers (IAPCO)—a UK-based non-profit promoting global standards and professional development in conference organization—the event will bring together leading MICE professionals from around the world under the theme “We Are of a Tribe.” Taiwan’s GIS Group and A Leading Co. are among the association’s 138 member companies from 38 countries.

 

During the exchange, GIS Group introduced its core business areas and shared firsthand insights into hosting the IAPCO Annual Meeting. The discussion covered global MICE industry practices and key success factors in executing international events. Students gained valuable perspectives on real-world operations and were encouraged to explore careers in the industry.

 

The group also toured ICC Tainan, experiencing the venue’s facilities, smart technologies, and sustainability initiatives. Opened in 2022, ICC Tainan spans 5.2 hectares, featuring over 10,000 square meters of indoor exhibition space, 600 standard booths, a 1,000-person conference hall, an 800-person hall, five 100-person meeting rooms, and three 20-person rooms.

 

With its green building features—including 34,375 planted trees absorbing 7,060 tons of carbon, an energy-saving HVAC system reducing electricity use by 35%, and solar panels generating power for over 1,300 households annually—ICC Tainan is a model of environmentally responsible infrastructure.

 

Dr. Chuang noted that ICC Tainan’s proximity to CJCU, along with the MICE industry’s increasing focus on smart technologies and sustainability, makes it an ideal partner for talent development. With improved infrastructure, quality services, and strong policy backing, Taiwan continues to rise as a global destination for business and MICE events. The visit not only strengthened academia-industry ties but also broadened students’ global outlook and competitiveness, setting the foundation for continued collaboration in nurturing the next generation of MICE professionals and advancing innovation and sustainability in the industry.

News Link:https://reurl.cc/eMrrMj

The highly anticipated 2025 Tainan Automation & Smart Manufacturing Expo, organized by Commercial Times, officially opened today (April 25) at ICC Tainan and will run until April 28. The exhibition brings together 168 professional exhibitors across 560 booths, marking the largest automation and manufacturing industry event in Southern Taiwan. The opening day saw a significant turnout from industry representatives and professional buyers, showcasing the strong demand and dynamic momentum of the region’s machinery sector.

 

This year’s expo continues the Tainan Machinery Show’s professional focus, with a special emphasis on metalworking, smart machine tools, automation equipment, and AI-driven solutions. The metalworking section alone accounts for 58% of the total booths, covering 330 units, reflecting the strong demand for such equipment in the southern manufacturing market.

 

Prominent exhibitors include industry leaders like Cheng Tai, Awei, Hiwin, Metal Center, Tai Heng, Gong Qun, and Tian Cheng Packaging, who are showcasing innovative technologies and the latest equipment. This year’s expo also marks the debut of AI-powered machine tool applications and sustainable solutions, fully embodying the transformation and upgrading of the southern industrial landscape.

 

According to Commercial Times, the automation expo serves as a crucial platform linking Southern Taiwan’s technology, traditional industries, and manufacturing sectors. With the increasing demand for industrial land and new factories in the region, the expo aims to continue providing a venue for industry professionals to exchange the latest technologies and engage in practical business collaborations, driving industrial upgrading.

 

Exhibition Period: Until April 28. Professional visitors can attend for free with a business card.

Exhibition Information & Registration: Click here