Taiwan Pushes AI Governance, Trade Reform at APEC Meeting

Taiwan called for stronger supply chain resilience, expanded digital trade cooperation, and responsible artificial intelligence governance during the 32nd APEC Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting held in Suzhou, China last week.

According to Taiwan’s Executive Yuan Office of Trade Negotiations, the Taiwanese delegation was led by Minister Without Portfolio Yang Jen-ni under the name “Chinese Taipei.” The delegation also included Department of International Organizations Director-General Jonathan Sun and trade officials.

The meeting, hosted by China under the theme “Building a Prosperous Asia-Pacific Community,” focused on strengthening regional trade cooperation, economic openness, and innovation across the Asia-Pacific region.

Taiwan emphasized that regional economic integration should remain market-driven and predictable while promoting inclusive growth. Officials warned that global supply chains continue to face disruption risks caused by geopolitical tensions, export controls, and maritime blockages, urging member economies to strengthen supply chain security and resilience.

The delegation also supported deeper regional cooperation on emerging economic issues such as environmental standards, labor policies, digital trade, and state-owned enterprise regulations, saying these efforts are necessary to create a more sustainable and trusted economic environment.

On trade policy, Taiwan reaffirmed support for reforming the World Trade Organization to strengthen the multilateral trading system. Officials highlighted concerns about market distortions and non-market industrial policies, calling for greater transparency and fair competition in global trade.

Taiwan also backed continued discussions on maintaining the moratorium on customs duties for electronic transmissions, a policy widely seen as critical for keeping digital trade costs low.

Artificial intelligence and digital transformation were major priorities during the talks. Taiwan called for stronger cooperation among APEC economies to promote trusted cross-border data flows, regulatory interoperability, and responsible AI governance.

Officials stressed the need to reduce the digital divide and support small and medium-sized enterprises in adopting digital technologies. Taiwan highlighted its domestic “Ten Major AI Infrastructure Projects” as part of its broader strategy to strengthen AI development and digital competitiveness.

The delegation also noted that Taiwan’s customs authorities are increasingly using AI technologies to improve cargo risk assessments and streamline trade procedures.

On climate policy, Taiwan outlined its roadmap toward achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, covering energy transition, industrial modernization, and sustainable lifestyle changes. Officials said AI and advanced semiconductor technologies would play a key role in improving manufacturing efficiency, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting smart industrial systems.

Taiwan further highlighted efforts to promote circular economy practices, increase recycled material usage, and provide businesses with updated guidance on global climate regulations through its Green Trade Information Network.

The discussions also covered broader economic priorities, including women’s and indigenous participation in the economy, as well as intellectual property challenges linked to rapid technological change and supply chain restructuring.