#Taiwan #ITRI #Kaohsiung #DoIT

Introduction

At the recent 2025 Meet Greater South event, Taiwan's Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT) unveiled an impressive line-up of 31 innovative solutions specifically designed to support the smart transformation of local industries in southern Taiwan. These advanced technologies are the result of collaboration with prominent institutions such as the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI), the Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC), and various startup groups in the region.

Collaborative Innovations

This year marked a significant leap in cooperation, particularly with the petrochemical sector, as the DoIT rolled out a state-of-the-art pipeline monitoring system. This new system not only meets but exceeds international standards, promising around-the-clock analyses with timely alerts all geared towards ensuring public safety and enhancing urban resilience. Moreover, local industries have partnered with the DoIT to innovate next-generation manufacturing technologies for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). By utilizing high-efficiency, weldable, and recyclable thermoplastic composites, Taiwan aims to create a robust and trustworthy supply chain that operates independently of external influences, primarily China.

Director-General Kuo's Vision

Kuo Chao-Chung, the Director-General of DoIT, expressed the department's commitment to being a driving force behind industrial innovation and economic growth. He emphasized the importance of working alongside research institutes, industry stakeholders, and startup enterprises to upgrade local industries and showcase their potential on a global scale. The 2025 Meet Greater South represents a pivotal opportunity for exchange between research and industry, fostering collaboration that can lead to further advancements.

Key Features of This Year

The DoIT Pavilion featured three critical aspects:
1. Enhancing Value: Leveraging innovative technologies to increase the value of southern Taiwan’s industries.
2. Startup Integration: Facilitating the inclusion of startups within local industries, injecting fresh momentum into the ecosystem.
3. AI Production Lines: Supporting the upgrade of varied sectors by employing AI-driven pilot production lines, aiding traditional industries to adopt smart technologies.

This exhibition serves not just as a display but also as a platform for meaningful exchanges between local businesses, aiming to collaboratively tackle industrial challenges and drive further transformation.

The Role of the Petrochemical Industry

Kaohsiung's petrochemical sector is a cornerstone of Taiwan's economy, contributing approximately 40% of the national production value from this industry, thereby creating substantial employment opportunities. In response to evolving trends for higher-value transformations, the DoIT has been proactive in deploying 24-hour monitoring systems for industrial pipelines. This initiative allows local government units to steer toward a more intelligent approach to managing the petrochemical sector. The integration of AI, IoT, and 5G technologies into the monitoring system not only aids in leak detection but also enhances overall safety measures, making it a benchmark for smart transformation and urban resilience.

Next-Generation UAV Manufacturing

In the arena of UAVs, the DoIT has spearheaded efforts to assist Taiwanese companies in establishing a self-sufficient supply chain. Through collaboration with the Taiwan Plastics Industry Development Centre and leading manufacturers, innovative thermoplastic composite production technologies are being developed. The centerpiece of this initiative is the world's first S-shaped multi-tow fiber interlaced stacking technology, designed to resolve challenges associated with the uniformity of thermoplastic processing and fiber fill density, ensuring sustainable practices in mass production. The potential of this technology was highlighted at the recent Paris Air Show, showcasing Taiwan’s aim to penetrate the defense aerospace sector and shift towards a high-value innovation landscape.

Conclusion

As global trade dynamics evolve, the significance of adaptability and digital transformation has skyrocketed, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With over 50 AI pilot production lines already initiated across 16 sectors, the DoIT is committed to supporting a broad spectrum of traditional industries as they embrace and integrate AI technologies. These efforts not only cater to immediate industrial needs but also prepare Taiwan for a competitive future in the global market.