MOEA Holds First Economic and Industrial Development Advisory Meeting; Hsu Sheng-hsiung Says Stable Power Supply Key to Investor Confidence

(Central News Agency reporter Xie Yixuan, Taipei, June 12) The Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) today held its first Economic and Industrial Development Advisory Meeting. Hsu Sheng-hsiung, Honorary Chairman of the Chinese National Federation of Industries (CNFI) and one of the co-conveners of the advisory meeting, stated that a stable power supply is key for Taiwan to develop AI data centers. He expressed hope regarding the government's pledge to avoid power shortages until 2034, emphasizing that stable power supply is essential to reassure investors and enhance the resilience of the investment environment.

The MOEA held the first meeting of the 115th session of the Economic and Industrial Development Advisory Council. The meeting was chaired by Minister of Economic Affairs Jyh-Ming Kung, with Hsu Sheng-hsiung, Honorary Chairman of the CNFI, and Liu Yang-wei, Chairman of the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (TEEMA), serving as co-conveners.

Speaking before the meeting, Hsu said the MOEA primarily aims to understand how various industry associations are enhancing their competitiveness in operations, what support the government can provide under the trend of global diversification, and the industry's use of AI tools.

When asked by the media about AI's electricity consumption, Hsu noted that water and electricity issues have been frequently raised. He expressed hope regarding the government's pledge to avoid power shortages until 2034, as electricity demand is increasing daily. He stressed that for Taiwan to develop AI data centers, a sufficient and stable power supply is crucial to make the investment environment resilient and reassure investors.

Hsu pointed out that AI is no longer just about data centers; the core lies in end-user applications. He believes that many Taiwanese companies have relevant plans, and effectively applying AI in design, production, and management systems will enhance their competitiveness.

Regarding recent stock market performance, Hsu mentioned that the stock market depends on the overall environment, noting the high correlation among global stock markets. The global economic growth rate is projected to be 3.3% this year, which is relatively stable. While some industries in Taiwan have attracted investor attention, others have not. He stated, "Taiwan cannot rely solely on AI or semiconductors; industrial diversification is a crucial foundation."

Chen Chun-sheng, Chairman of the Taipei Computer Association (TCA), said that last week's Computex Taipei generated a wave of enthusiasm for AI. He expressed hope that discussions with the government and various industry associations today would sustain this AI momentum, ensuring Taiwan remains an industrial and global center for AI, particularly Agentic AI.

Liu Yang-wei briefly stated before the meeting that he would present TEEMA's suggestions during the session. (Editor: Pan Yi-ching) 1150612