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2026 Japan-Taiwan Innovation Summit: Together, Go Big!

The 2026 Japan-Taiwan Innovation Summit, scheduled for August 17th to 19th in Osaka and Tokyo, promises to be a groundbreaking event that unites government officials, businesses, and startups from both nations. The focus this year is on fostering collaboration in deep tech sectors, including semiconductors, AI, and biotechnology, as both Japan and Taiwan aim to strengthen their economic security amidst growing global uncertainties.

A Historic Meeting of Leaders

On the first day of the Tokyo program, August 18th, two prominent figures will take the stage: Yoshihiro Yao, the Minister of the National Development Council (NDC) of Taiwan, and Yuriko Koike, the Governor of Tokyo. This joint appearance is significant as it marks a rare opportunity for a current Taiwanese minister to address an audience in Tokyo alongside a leading Japanese official, highlighting the strengthening ties and cooperative spirit between the two countries.

With representatives from the U.S. State Department also present, discussions will aim to illuminate the future of technology cooperation across Japan, Taiwan, and the United States.

Key Takeaways from the Event

1. High-level Engagement

With high-profile speeches lined up throughout the morning, this summit offers an exceptional platform to capture the evolution of Japan-Taiwan relations in the fields of economy and innovation.

2. Semiconductor Cooperation

The event takes place against the backdrop of significant developments in semiconductor manufacturing, including the construction of TSMC's second factory in Kumamoto, Japan. This collaboration is evolving beyond simple factory establishment to encompass partnerships in materials, equipment, design, talent, and startup collaboration, emphasizing the need for a united front in strategic industries.

3. Building a Resilient AI Landscape

Taiwan is a cornerstone of global AI infrastructure, producing approximately 90% of the world's AI servers. The panel discussions in the afternoon will address constructing reliable AI infrastructures and resilient supply chains, showcasing how Taiwan’s strength in hardware can be synergized with Japan’s prowess in industrial data and manufacturing.

4. Strengthening the Japan-U.S.-Taiwan Model

In an era marked by rising protectionism and supply chain disruptions, the trilateral collaboration model among Japan, Taiwan, and the U.S. stands out as a critical strategy for economic security and growth in the Pacific region. Participants will be offered insights into government policies, corporate venture capital activities, startup collaborations, and mergers and acquisitions associated with this model.

On the following day, August 19th, approximately 40 Taiwanese startups will showcase their innovations at the Tokyo Innovation Base (TiB) through pitch presentations aimed at penetrating the Japanese market.

Event Details

Summit Name: 2026 Japan-Taiwan Innovation Summit - Together, Go Big
Date: August 18, 2026
Time: 10:00 AM - 4:10 PM (Press Registration starts at 9:30 AM)
Location: Tokyo Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Shibusawa Hall, Marunouchi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
Organizers: Startup Island Taiwan / National Development Council, Taiwan
Entry: Free with prior registration (Press are requested to contact the event organizers for attendance).
More Info: Official Website

Morning Program Highlights (Tentative)

• - Opening Remarks by Yoshihiro Yao
• - Keynote Address by Chih-Yung Shiao, Director of the Industrial Development Bureau
• - Guest Speeches by Daihiro Takashima, JETRO, and Yuriko Koike, Governor of Tokyo
• - A keynote presentation elucidating deep tech cooperation insights
• - Startup showcase featuring companies such as Phasetrum and HCmed Innovations
• - Networking sessions and startup exhibitions
• - Panel discussions focused on the crossroads of biotech, AI, and investment strategies.

This summit represents an important opportunity for media coverage and discussion of the latest trends affecting Japan-Taiwan relations in the realm of technology and innovation.

To secure media access, journalists should submit their name, media outlet, number of attendees, and equipment needs by August 14 to ensure participation in the photo opportunities and sessions with key speakers.