ITRI Europe Office Celebrates 30 Years of Strengthened Technological Collaboration

ITRI Europe Office Celebrates 30 Years of Successful Collaboration

The Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) recently marked a significant milestone, celebrating the 30th anniversary of its Europe Office in Berlin. Established in 1996, the office has been a pivotal point for fostering innovation and technological collaboration between Taiwan and Europe. The anniversary was highlighted by a technology forum held on June 12, 2026, which showcased the achievements in collaboration, attracting key research organizations such as the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation and Fraunhofer Society.

During the event, ITRI's president, Tsung-Tsong Wu, emphasized the importance of the long-standing partnerships with European entities, illustrating how these collaborations have transformed ITRI from a technology explorer into a strategic partner in Europe’s innovation ecosystem. He noted, “Our collaborations over three decades show that successful technological cooperation relies not just on expertise but also on the mutual trust that has been cultivated over the years.”

One notable partnership highlighted at the event was with the Fraunhofer Institute, which has been ongoing since 1992. The renewal of their memorandum of understanding for another five years aims to build upon existing efforts in health, information and communications technology, renewable energy, and extend into emerging sectors like artificial intelligence and robotics.

Johann Feckl, director of Research Precompetitive and International Affairs at Fraunhofer, remarked during his opening speech on the significance of enduring collaborative efforts. “The longstanding partnership between Fraunhofer and ITRI epitomizes how trust and commitment to a shared future can create lasting impacts,” he stated. His comments underscored the necessity of international connectivity in applied research to harness new technological advancements and transform them into impactful innovations.

In line with its dedication to bolstering ties with Europe’s industrial and technology sectors, ITRI also celebrated its UK office's first anniversary by hosting a Technology Day. This occasion further emphasized ITRI's commitment to technological cooperation with various partners, including a notable association with the National Physical Laboratory (NPL) focusing on semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and related technologies.

Moreover, aligning with the European Union's research priorities on zero emissions, biomedicine, digital innovation, and the space sector, ITRI plans to enhance its technological collaborations between Taiwan and Europe through its branches in Berlin and London. The institute is set to extend partnerships in France, the Netherlands, and Eastern Europe, particularly in emerging fields such as drone technology.

With its extensive network spanning industry, government, academia, research institutes, and startups, ITRI aims to expedite technological exchange, spark political dialogue, and foster interdisciplinary innovation. These initiatives position Taiwan as a crucial player in the global industrial transformation landscape.

In conclusion, the 30th anniversary of ITRI’s Europe office is not just a celebration of its rich history but also a reaffirmation of its commitment to future collaborations that drive technological advancements and innovations in the industrial domain. As the world moves towards a more interconnected technological future, partnerships like those between ITRI and its European counterparts are vital for shaping the next generation of industrial solutions.