The "2024 Taipei Textile Exhibition" opened today (15th), with Vice President Hsiao Mei-Chin and Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Chih-Hui among the invited attendees. In her speech, Hsiao Mei-Chin shared that her outfit today is made from functional fabrics produced in Taiwan, and she is happy to act as a "spokesperson for Taiwanese textiles."
Hsiao Mei-Chin stated that decades ago, the Taiwanese textile industry was a significant force in Taiwan's economic takeoff and miracle. Over the years, through international competition and industrial transformation, the industry has now integrated the world's most valued aspects of net-zero carbon emissions and environmental protection into product development. Especially this year, the uniforms of our national team for the Paris Olympics also reflect the theme of environmental sustainability, using eco-friendly materials and innovative technologies to produce high-quality products that meet sports needs, are comfortable, soft, and moisture-wicking. This has led many other countries' Olympic teams to use Taiwan's high-quality fabrics, showcasing Taiwan's leading position in sustainable and eco-friendly technology.
She also mentioned that while Taiwan's chip industry is important, we should not focus solely on it. "Our traditional industries also hope for, expect, and need strong support from the government through various policy incentives." Addressing issues such as population and labor structure, as well as green energy needs, the Ministry of Economic Affairs is actively seeking feasible and sustainable solutions and support.
Hsiao Mei-Chin said she has always been a user of Taiwanese textiles. Since becoming Vice President and spending long hours in the office, she prefers wearing clothes that are comfortable, washable, and easy to clean without wasting time on ironing. Therefore, many of her suits are made from MIT functional fabrics. Today, she is wearing functional fabrics from Taiwanese textile manufacturers from head to toe, and she is happy to act as a spokesperson for Taiwanese textiles.
Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Chih-Hui said in his speech that in September this year, he invited industry representatives to understand the needs and challenges faced by the textile industry. Some industry representatives indicated that Taiwanese textile companies focus on developing special new products and new technologies, maintaining international competitiveness through differentiation, but the overall textile industry still needs more government support in terms of operations. Therefore, the Ministry of Economic Affairs and the Taiwan External Trade Development Council have many overseas offices, and he suggested making good use of these resources to assist companies in securing overseas orders. Additionally, he hopes the government can help companies introduce AI intelligent production. Some advanced representatives also reflected on the labor shortage issue in Taiwan, and these opinions will serve as important references for the Ministry of Economic Affairs in future policy promotion.
Regarding the labor shortage, the Ministry of Economic Affairs will conduct in-depth discussions in the near future to meet industry needs. As for international competition, the focus will be on guiding companies to position themselves in niche markets, helping to establish
