Kaohsiung Mayor Concludes U.S. Visit, Pursues Stronger Global Tech Connections

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai returned to Taiwan on March 20 after an eight-day U.S. visit. He said the trip connected the city with leading international resources. The delegation focused on semiconductor and artificial intelligence development.

Trilateral semiconductor cooperation

Officials signed a memorandum of understanding with Arizona and Japan’s Kumamoto Prefecture. The agreement aims to advance trilateral semiconductor collaboration. Kaohsiung officials said the pact will bolster advanced manufacturing stability.

The city government described the partnership as a move to protect global supply chains. It also aims to build a more resilient industrial ecosystem among democratic partners. Filmogaz.com obtained the press release from Kaohsiung City authorities.

Silicon photonics collaboration

Chen visited the University of Arizona to explore silicon photonics projects. The university proposed creating a joint center named Silicon Photonics Arizona-Kaohsiung Center, or SPARK. National Sun Yat-sen University was identified as the local partner in the proposal.

The initiative targets next-generation silicon photonics technology. Officials said the center would support research and industry partnerships. The plan lays groundwork for future technology transfer and joint development.

Artificial intelligence engagements

The mayor attended Nvidia’s GTC conference in Silicon Valley. He presented Kaohsiung’s work on sovereign AI for urban governance. Chen also held discussions with major technology firms, including Google and AT&T.

Delegation members exchanged ideas on AI applications for cities. The talks covered governance, infrastructure, and private-sector collaboration. The trip sought stronger global tech connections and practical industry links.

Takeaways and next steps

Chen said the visit paved the way for deeper international ties. The mayor emphasized technology cooperation as a priority for Kaohsiung. City officials plan follow-up meetings to implement the agreements.

• Duration: eight days in Arizona and Silicon Valley.
• Key actions: MoU with Arizona and Kumamoto Prefecture.
• Research initiative: proposed SPARK center with University of Arizona and National Sun Yat-sen University.
• Industry outreach: participation at Nvidia GTC and talks with Google and AT&T.

The trip helped the Kaohsiung Mayor pursue a U.S. visit agenda focused on technology. It underscores efforts to pursue stronger global tech connections for the city’s future. Officials will now work to turn agreements into projects.