Formation of National Cybersecurity Team: Efforts Made by Taiwan
From January 2022, there has been a surge in the frequency of cyber-attacks targeting Taiwan institutions by 38% (2,644 per week on average). Cyber-attacks focused on educational and research bodies (1,605 per week) , some attacks targeting government and military institutions (1136 per week) and on the telecom sector (1079 per week).
Information security has become a key focus not only in Taiwan but also the world as countries are rapidly developing their own Information Security Safetynet. With the technological advancement and shifts in people’s lifestyle, our reliance on the internet and the network are set to intensify. Taiwan is an economic powerhouse and an important base for high-tech industries, so information security is a matter of importance.
Taiwan Information Security Association, TWISA — The Development of National and Corporation Cybersecurity Measures
TWISA is committed to building the ecosystem for Taiwan’s cybersecurity industry and promoting the development of Taiwan’s cybersecurity brand. TWISA’s marketing strategy and the analysis of the international market indicated the significance of Taiwan’s cybersecurity influences in the international stage.
When it comes to cybersecurity, Taiwan stands out in delivering comprehensive solutions by leveraging their vertically integrated manufacturing mode, which not only enhances efficiency but also ensures superior product quality. Additionally, Taiwan has a large number of highly qualified talents and mature software and technologies, such as automated sensors to detect APT and prevent high-end continuous attacks, providing more comprehensive information security solutions.
Furthermore, Taiwan’s security companies have established a strong track record in targeted international markets, including leveraging Japan’s pool of skilled liberal arts talent, engaging in OEM manufacturing in Thailand, and capitalizing on Vietnam’s relocated manufacturing. These accumulated credentials position them favorably for opportunities in international business expansion.
At the national level, the Taiwan government has been actively promoting the advancement of information security through various programs and regulations. Over the years, Taiwan has formulated multiple “Communication and Information Infrastructure Security Mechanism” and established key institutions like the National Information and Communication Security Task Force, NICST. Notably, the most recent National Cyber Security Program of Taiwan (2021–2024) outlines Taiwan’s comprehensive information security strategy and plan.
Moreover, the introduction of the Financial Cyber Security Action Plan in 2020 specifically guides financial institutions in bolstering their information security defenses. This plan emphasizes crucial approaches such as collaboration between the public and private sectors, tailored regulations, resource sharing, compliance measures, and international cooperation. These initiatives aim to create a safer digital environment while facilitating the growth and resilience of the financial sector.
Digital Landscape and Collaboration
Looking ahead, Taiwan’s information security market is projected to have a market size of US$2.32 billion within the next two years, with a compound annual growth rate of 9.1% from 2016 to 2022 surpassing the global average of 8.1%. The future landscape of the Internet of Things (IoT) related information security market will continue to expand, fueled by the escalating demand and attention to information security concerns in both hardware and software perspectives. The IoT market in Taiwan is anticipated to grow by 30% by 2025 compared to today.
In general, the issue of information security has attracted more and more attention in Taiwan. Both the government and enterprises are aware of the importance of information security and have been strengthening their own information security capabilities and measures to meet the ever-changing information security challenges. In the future, with the continuous development and application of technology, information security issues will continue to evolve and escalate, requiring our continued attention and research.
In Taiwan, matters concerning information security have received growing attention with both government and enterprises becoming increasingly aware of its importance and actively solidifying their own information security capability and implementing measures to tackle the hurdles in this sector. Looking forward, the advancement of technology and its application present new concerns in information security. Anticipated to intensify, these challenges require persistent research and attention.
Startup Island TAIWAN — Together, Go Big
At this innovation conference, the Japanese and Taiwanese chose the symbol of the children’s game “Cat’s Cradle” to represent the shared essence of their cultures. This image illustrates their ability to blend creativity and practicality, utilizing simple lines to create infinite possibilities. It also serves as a representation of their collaboration that aims to expand connections and drive meaningful change. The objective of “Together, Go Big” is to achieve collective success in establishing an expansive market, a robust economy, and a culture of deep collaboration.
The emergence of digital transformation has opened up collaboration opportunities between Japan and Taiwan with partnerships in semiconductors, AIoT, circular economy, biotechnology, and pharmaceuticals. Taiwan’s dynamic ICT industry has established partnerships with Japanese enterprises. By enhancing cooperation in talent, technology, marketing, and capital for digital transformation, Japan and Taiwan can not only address Japan’s domestic digitalization goals but also venture together into global markets, paving the way for business opportunities.
Centered on entrepreneurs and digital transformation, the “Together, Go Big” Japan-Taiwan Startup Summit embodies the core concept. Acknowledging the shared concerns of Taiwan and Japan in the face of digital transformation, the summit emphasizes technological innovation as the highlight where entrepreneurs hold the power to reshape the business landscape through fresh business models. Through the collaborative efforts of exceptional Taiwanese entrepreneurs and Japanese partners, the summit aims to strengthen cooperation and forge deeper and more impactful relationships.
Writer: Sarah Pan, Eddie Busabok
Graph Design: Shirley Hsieh
