Taiwan’s growing influence in artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing sits at the heart of this conversation with Vincent Chin Hsiang Yao, Taiwan’s Representative to the United Kingdom. Speaking at the EBRD Trade Facilitation Programme event in Riga, he outlines how Taiwan has managed to deliver strong economic results despite global tensions and supply chain pressures. The country’s central role in semiconductors and next generation communications continues to shape its success, supported by a clear industrial strategy and major investment in areas such as silicon photonics, robotics and quantum computing.

Yao also highlights Taiwan’s expanding partnerships across Europe, particularly with the Baltic states and Central and Eastern Europe. These regions have become important destinations for Taiwanese investment thanks to their focus on innovation and digital transformation. With dedicated funds, active engagement across seven EBRD managed initiatives and a growing presence of Taiwanese AI companies in markets such as Poland and the Czech Republic, Taiwan is positioning itself as both a manufacturing hub and a trusted partner for countries accelerating their digital and industrial transitions.