President Lai calls for a diversified industrial “chain of guardian mountains” to boost Taiwan’s economy

In his National Day address, President Lai Ching-te described Taiwan’s economic strategy as building a “chain of guardian mountains,” meaning multiple industries must reinforce each other rather than depend on one flagship. He pointed to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. as a key example and noted that foreign partners such as the United States and Japan are urging its overseas expansion for supply-chain security.

Lai highlighted a 14.15 percent growth in the first half of 2026 and a projected full-year expansion above 11 percent, the strongest in 39 years, alongside a stock market surge to 49,000 points. The government will accelerate five priority sectors—semiconductors, AI, defense, security surveillance, and next-generation communications—and launch ten AI infrastructure projects in silicon photonics, quantum computing and robotics.

A NT$100 billion fund will support micro, small and medium enterprises with financing, digital upgrades and export channels, while immigration reforms aim to attract skilled foreign workers. Energy policy will focus on reliable, low-carbon power, and social measures include a universal NT$10,000 cash payment and higher welfare benefits.