Organized by the Executive Yuan’s Board of Science and Technology, this year’s BioTaiwan Committee (BTC) meeting began on Sept. 1. Minister of Science and Technology Wu Tsung-tsong said that since the BTC meetings began focusing on artificial intelligence and information and communication technology in 2017, the integration of these emerging technologies with the biotechnology sector has helped in establishing a strong foundation for Taiwan towards 2030.

During his address at the BTC opening ceremony, Premier Su Tseng-chang said that President Tsai Ing-wen has placed a high priority on biotechnology and has singled out the sector for inclusion in the five plus two industry innovation plan during her first term and in the six core strategic industries outlined in her second-term inauguration. The government thanks the BTC for providing its input on the Tsai Administration’s landmark budgets and will strive to complete relevant legislation that will shorten approval processes and raise administrative efficiency.

Premier Su emphasized that the government has continued to pour resources in relevant databases, building communities and hubs with the aspirations that Taiwan’s biotechnology sector will play a leading role in the global market.

Minister Wu said that past BTC meetings usually saw attendance from the technology ministry, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Council of Agriculture. Four years ago, attendance was expanded to include the Ministry of Finance, the National Development Council and the Financial Supervisory Commission. Funding is crucial in developing the biotechnology sector, which has faced difficulties in the absence of eased financial regulations. With the support of the Cabinet, it is hoped that Taiwan’s biotechnology will have a bright future ahead.

[2020-09-01 / CNA]