#ITRI #London #UK #Taiwan-UK #Catapult Network

ITRI Launches Its UK Office

On May 28, 2025, the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) inaugurated its latest office in London, marking a pivotal development in the collaboration between Taiwan and the United Kingdom in the fields of technology and innovation. This office, ITRI's fifth international branch following those established in the U.S., Japan, Germany, and Southeast Asia, is expected to serve as a strategic hub facilitating innovation and strengthening ties between the two regions.

The opening ceremony attracted over 100 representatives from various sectors, including industry, government, and academia, reflecting the significance of this partnership. The event also witnessed the signing of a Statement of Intent between ITRI and the Catapult Network, aimed at enhancing the collaboration between ITRI and the UK's leading innovation ecosystem.

During the ceremony, the Minister of Economic Affairs, Jyh-Huei Kuo, conveyed his congratulations through a video message, emphasizing the immense potential for collaboration between Taiwan's proficiency in semiconductors and information and communication technology (ICT) and the UK's robust research and development capabilities. He highlighted the Taiwan-UK Collaborative R&D Programme funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Innovate UK, which aims to catalyze growth in technology, industry, and markets through shared initiatives.

Chairman of ITRI, Tsung-Tsong Wu, further reinforced the strong partnership that has been cultivated over the years between Taiwan and the UK. He noted that this collaboration spans technology development, scientific research, and industrial innovation, enhancing each country's contributions to the global value chain. The newly established ITRI UK Office is set to be a platform for exchanging knowledge, developing talent, and co-creating innovative solutions, thereby fostering technology commercialization and generating industrial value on a global scale.

ITRI President Edwin Liu highlighted the organization's commitment to closer cooperation with the Catapult Network, referencing ongoing projects with various Catapults, including CSA Catapult on compound semiconductors and ORE Catapult in offshore wind technology. He stated, "Today, we're broadening our collaboration with the Catapult Network to include emerging fields such as 6G communications, quantum technologies, net-zero solutions, biomedical innovations, artificial intelligence, and smart manufacturing." Liu affirmed that these initiatives would promote innovation, increase industrial competitiveness, and enhance global presence.

The event was graced by distinguished guests including Lord Richard Faulkner of Worcester, the UK Trade Envoy to Taiwan; Dr. Dave Smith, the UK National Technology Adviser; and Professor Julia Sutcliffe, the UK Chief Scientific Adviser, among others. Their presence underscored the importance of formalizing partnerships that leverage the strengths of both countries.

About ITRI

Founded in 1973, ITRI is recognized as one of the world's foremost technology research and development institutions dedicated to fostering a better future through innovation. Over the years, ITRI has transitioned Taiwan's industries from labor-intensive to innovation-driven, adapting to market needs and global trends through its 2035 Technology Strategy and Roadmap. This roadmap accentuates innovation in areas such as Smart Living, Quality Health, Sustainable Environment, and Resilient Society.

ITRI's commitment extends to nurturing startups and supporting spinoffs, significantly impacting the technology landscape with notable successes such as UMC and TSMC. The establishment of the UK office reflects ITRI's strategy to strengthen its international presence and encourage international cooperation in research and development.

As this new chapter unfolds, the collaborative ventures stemming from ITRI's UK Office are anticipated to contribute significantly to technological advancements and foster a more integrated approach to innovation between Taiwan and the UK, ultimately benefiting global markets.