The AI workforce became a national priority as President William Lai announced a major talent and investment strategy in Taipei. He confirmed the government would commit NT$100 billion to expand the AI workforce and train 500,000 professionals by 2040. He delivered the announcement on Tuesday during a national artificial intelligence talent forum held in the capital. Therefore, the pledge marked one of Taiwan’s most ambitious technology development commitments in its modern economic history.
Lai said artificial intelligence already reshapes production models and daily life across industries and public services nationwide. However, he added that many citizens still underestimate how deeply AI already influences economic and social activities. Consequently, the administration now wants to ensure the entire population can adapt to fast-changing technological realities. The AI workforce plan aims to make Taiwan competitive as global industries integrate automation and advanced data-driven systems.
Taiwan previously built its global reputation through precision manufacturing, advanced chips, and integrated electronics supply chains. Now, however, policymakers believe the nation must move beyond hardware into intelligent software-driven applications and services. Therefore, the AI workforce initiative focuses on building skills that support next generation products across manufacturing, healthcare, and finance. Officials say that approach will protect Taiwan’s economic resilience as automation replaces traditional labor-intensive business models.
The government rolled out a ten-year artificial intelligence development framework during the previous policy cycle. That strategy includes building a national computing center capable of supporting high-performance data analysis and research programs. It also prioritizes emerging technologies including quantum computing, silicon photonics, and advanced robotics development. Together, these investments will supply the infrastructure required to support a much larger AI workforce across the economy.
Lai emphasized that the program does not require every citizen to become a software engineer or machine learning specialist. Instead, officials want workers in all sectors to understand how to deploy artificial intelligence tools in daily operations. As a result, the government plans to introduce AI training across schools, universities, and public service institutions nationwide. The AI workforce will therefore include engineers, managers, technicians, and service professionals who use intelligent systems effectively.
The administration also plans to support small and medium sized enterprises through targeted AI adoption and digital transformation programs. Officials believe these firms account for a majority of employment yet often lack resources to implement advanced technologies. Therefore, the AI workforce initiative will provide training, consulting, and financing support to help smaller companies modernize. That support should boost productivity, improve exports, and strengthen Taiwan’s position in global supply chains.
Industry experts say Taiwan’s strong semiconductor base gives the country a major advantage in artificial intelligence development. However, they caution that global competition for skilled engineers continues to intensify across Asia, Europe, and North America. Therefore, rapid investment in domestic training remains essential for maintaining leadership in emerging digital technologies. The AI workforce program seeks to prevent talent shortages that could limit long-term growth.
Looking ahead, officials expect the funding to begin flowing into venture capital, training centers, and university partnerships. They also plan to track progress annually toward the goal of producing 500,000 skilled artificial intelligence professionals. Meanwhile, the government intends to update its digital economy regulations to support innovation and responsible AI deployment. Ultimately, leaders believe the AI workforce strategy will secure Taiwan’s competitiveness in the next phase of global technological development.
