Maryland Secretary of State Visits Taiwan, Invites Taiwanese Companies to Invest in the US to Strengthen Relations

Maryland Secretary of State Susan C. Lee and Maryland Chief Strategy Officer for Commerce Judy Smith visited Taiwan to participate in the "New Framework for Taiwan-US Economic and Trade Agreements: Opportunities, Challenges, Strategies, and New Layout for Non-Red Supply Chains for Taiwanese Enterprises Investing in the US" forum, which commenced on the 7th, and were interviewed exclusively by CNA today. Maryland is adjacent to the capital Washington D.C. and boasts the closest Atlantic port to the US Midwest (Port of Baltimore), with thriving import and export trade. Over 50 Taiwanese companies operate there, creating nearly 6,000 job opportunities. Lee explained that Maryland and Taiwan have similar industrial focuses, including life sciences, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum science, and aerospace. This not only enhances the quality of life and well-being of people on both sides but also creates numerous business opportunities and jobs. "Taiwan and Maryland have decades of friendship," Lee emphasized. Her visit to Taiwan aims to invite Taiwanese enterprises and investors to Maryland, which will further strengthen the relationship between Maryland and Taiwan. Late last year, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) signed an agreement with the Asia-Pacific Investment and Innovation Development Association (TAIIDA) and the SFIC Group. TAIIDA and the SFIC Group can provide up to 50 million US dollars in investment funds for projects approved by TEDCO. Lee stated that this plan is still in its early stages, and more details need to be clarified. Maryland has successfully attracted international companies, including Japan's Hitachi and the UK's AstraZeneca, which have established operations in Maryland; last week, South Korea's Samsung Biologics inaugurated its factory in Maryland. To attract foreign investment, Maryland offers tax credits for R&D, biotechnology, and job creation, and provides funding for advanced manufacturing and stem cell research to encourage companies to invest in the state. Smith pointed out that the Maryland state government reviews and adjusts various programs annually based on technology and industrial development. A new tax incentive policy for employee training is expected soon, and the state government also provides one-on-one consultation on foreign business regulations to assist companies in formulating investment plans. When asked about the impact of the Taiwan-US Equivalent Trade Agreement (ART), Lee said it benefits both the US and Taiwan, allowing Taiwan and Maryland to deepen cooperation, especially given their shared interests, values, and goals. Maryland also has many high-level Chinese American talents who act as ambassadors for both sides. Lee emphasized that Maryland has world-class educational institutions, including Johns Hopkins University and the University of Maryland, and is one of the most concentrated states for scientists in the US. Additionally, Maryland is home to federal regulatory and research agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration and the National Institutes of Health, which makes it easier for companies to import and market products. Lee also welcomed EVA Air's new direct flight route to Washington starting in June this year, stating, "This will bring us even closer; nothing does that better than a direct flight." (Edited by Lin Ke-lun, Yang Kai-xiang) 1150406