Reported by Chang Yu-Ling from Taipei

Premier Lai expressed that a cross-disciplinary approach which combines the AI and healthcare industries will be the key to the future success of the biomedical industry in Taiwan, because Taiwan has an excellent healthcare system, a high clinical research capacity and a huge NHI database and the unique Taiwan Biobank. 

After being briefed by the Bio Taiwan Committee (BTC) on its 2018 performances, Premier Lai expressed that Taiwan has many advantages in the development of the biomedical industry.  The National Biotechnology Research Park, which was inaugurated on October 15, will play an important role in coordinating resources, forming the cluster effect and driving the development and innovation of the industry, said Premier Lai.

Many international IT companies have come to Taiwan in recent years to look for the opportunities of forming a partnership with local companies to jointly develop the health service industry.  Premier Lai urged all government departments and agencies not only to support the development of innovative biotech industry, but also to seize any possible opportunities to help local industries to transform.

The BTC Conference was held in September.  The suggestions made by the BTC Conference include a robust regulatory system for the emerging biotech industry, the integration of bio banks, the development of the industrial eco-system, the cultivation of talents, the encouragement of inward investments and innovation, etc.  Dr Wu Tsung-Tsong, the Minister without Portfolio of Executive Yuan, will continue leading and overseeing the development of the integration of biomedicine and AI. 

Dr Wu expressed that the focus will be put on the long-term planning of the biomedical industry with a view to enhancing the industry’s competitiveness.  The top priority will be given to the industries of digital healthcare, precision medicine, regenerative medicine and senior welfare.   The newly inaugurated National Biotechnology Research Park will have a cluster effect in supporting new start-ups.

Dr Wu Tsung-Tsong also stressed the importance of global and regional cooperation in healthcare.  The government will try to attract international companies to invest in Taiwan, introduce international accelerators and resources, help Taiwanese start-ups enter the global market, speed up the integration of products and services and help local businesses to thrive.

【2018-10-26/ Commercial Times 】