The number of U.S. state offices in Taiwan has quadrupled in recent years, with 24 states now actively pursuing investment and trade opportunities in Taiwan. This surge is driven by Taiwan’s growing role in foreign direct investment, as seen with TSMC’s massive project in Arizona, and the need for U.S. states to attract Taiwanese companies seeking to diversify beyond the Chinese market.

Audrey Tang, Taiwan’s former Minister of Digital Affairs, envisions AI as a tool to strengthen democracy by fostering consensus, combating misinformation, and bridging ideological divides. Through initiatives like Alignment Assemblies and bridging algorithms, Tang demonstrates how Taiwan leverages open-source technology and democratic values to create collaborative, inclusive digital spaces that counter authoritarian influence and enhance global AI governance.

For the first time in over two decades, Taiwanese investments in the United States surpassed those in China, signaling a significant realignment of Taiwan’s economic priorities amid shifting global trade dynamics. Driven by major players like TSMC and bolstered by U.S. incentives, this trend reflects deeper U.S.-Taiwan ties and a strategic move to diversify operations and mitigate risks.

In the age of artificial intelligence, mastering creativity is key to futureproofing our careers, as it enables us to solve complex, unpredictable challenges where human ingenuity remains unmatched. By blending creative thinking with intelligence, individuals and organizations can drive innovation, adapt to change, and unlock new opportunities in an ever-evolving world.

TOPICS Senior Editor Julia Bergström sat down with GE Vernova’s Roger Martella to discuss electrification, decarbonization, and the global energy transition, highlighting Taiwan’s role as a pragmatic leader. Drawing from his experience as former EPA General Counsel, Martella emphasized the importance of integrity, collaboration, and innovation in advancing sustainability efforts.

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing businesses with affordable tools and cloud-based platforms, making it accessible to organizations of all sizes. By streamlining operations and personalizing customer experiences, AI empowers businesses to innovate and compete effectively. Starting small with tailored solutions allows even smaller enterprises to unlock its transformative potential.