Taiwan-Europe research projects generate NT$4.2 billion

臺灣與歐洲的研究計畫創造了42億新台幣的收入

TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan has launched 86 joint research and development projects with European partners, generating about NT$4.2 billion (US$132.9 million) in industrial output, the Ministry of Economic Affairs said Wednesday.

The ministry said it has launched research projects with 14 European countries, per CNA. It also signed cooperation agreements with Spain, Germany, the Czech Republic, the UK, and France.

MOEA Industrial Technology Department Director General Kuo Chao-chung (郭肇中) said Europe’s research base and post-pandemic supply chain restructuring have driven a surge in Taiwanese investment. Investment in Europe reached NT$154.8 billion in 2023, while the EU became Taiwan’s fourth-largest trading partner in 2024, with bilateral trade topping NT$2.17 billion.

Kuo said the ministry plans to sign cooperation agreements this year with two additional European countries, focusing on lasers and AI. Future efforts will emphasize stronger links to Eastern Europe and expansion into Northern Europe through multilateral deals.

Among the highlighted projects, Aike Smart Technology partnered with RWTH Aachen University to develop washable smart electronic textiles. The technology has been adopted by international brands, with orders exceeding 300,000 units.

Another project saw Accutex collaborate with a Spanish firm to develop high-precision wire-cut electrical discharge machining equipment. The products have obtained EU certification and entered the aerospace components market, with 2025 sales up 152% from 2023.

To encourage international expansion, the ministry will offer bonus subsidies of up to 20% for cross-disciplinary AI and multinational projects. Total government support can cover up to 50% of project costs, with no funding cap.