The former Premier of Taiwan, Chuan Lin, once posed an intriguing question: “Will the AI wave become a bubble?” It’s a topic that invites comparisons to the dot-com bubble of the early 2000s. However, upon closer examination, the so-called internet bubble wasn’t the end of an era but a prelude to greater technological advancements, particularly following the launch of the iPhone in 2007. Much like the internet’s resurgence, the AI wave presents a fresh landscape brimming with potential.
Unlike bubbles which burst and disappear, AI is unfolding as a tapestry of business opportunities and new industry structures, driven by big data and cloud services. This era of technological evolution emphasizes learning and adapting to new innovations. While tech giants may experience their ups and downs, Taiwan’s robust manufacturing sector remains a cornerstone of global production, impervious to such fluctuations.
In today’s tech-centric world, end-users need reliable hardware to experience the digital wonders provided by cloud services. Servers, motherboards, and comprehensive equipment setups are more crucial than ever, ensuring Taiwan’s pivotal role in production. While software can be easily updated, the importance of hardware cannot be overstated.
Despite the reliance on Taiwan’s technological prowess, the island remains vigilant in a volatile global arena. As observed by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo, Taiwan’s stability is tightly linked to the security of the global economy. Positioned as a beacon of democracy in the Western Pacific, Taiwan carries immense responsibility on its shoulders.
Reflecting on personal industry insights and 40 years of research, it’s possible to delineate the evolution of power through three distinct eras—industrial, digital, and the emerging IoT era. Each phase presents unique challenges and opportunities, prompting different international reactions and strategies.
This analysis is drawn from Colley Hwang’s compelling new book, “SEMI Country: Trump Storm, and the Island of No Significance,” which explores these themes in depth. The e-book is available on popular platforms for those eager to delve into this insightful narrative.
