Semicon Taiwan 2026 Kicks Off in Taipei

Semicon, the world's leading semiconductor trade show and Taiwan's largest chip event, is here on the way in Taipei. With record-high attendance expected, the spotlight is firmly on Taiwan as chipmakers and tech leaders showcase their latest innovations. Organizers say this year's show will draw 1,300 exhibitors from 65 countries, with more than 100,000 visitors expected to attend. In addition, this year's Semicon features a record 18 countries participating in its global pavilion. The event comes as the world is riding high on AI, with Taiwan taking center stage, thanks to its critical role in the global chip and AI ecosystem. This year was probably the most unprecedented year in terms of the semiconductor stocks are on fire, the industry's on fire. I think this is a good way to get started and allies around Taiwan to Taiwan to play a much bigger role to support on the AI revolution. And that positive outlook is not slowing down. Executives at Semicon are predicting that the global semiconductor industry could reach US$3 trillion by 2035, fueled by a demand in AI chips and supply chain capabilities such as advanced packaging. Taiwan is seen as central to their continued growth. The chip industry on the island alone surpassed US$200 billion in 2025. Taiwan's premier Zhuo Rongcai was also at the opening ceremony, emphasizing the country's next focus for industrial development, while ensuring Taiwan's energy supply can keep pace with growing business demand and expansion in the AI era. The show continues through Friday, featuring forums with AI giants such as Google, MediaTek and Foxconn. There will also be discussions ranging from the evolving AI landscape to next-generation technologies such as silicon photonics and quantum tech and more. With AI driving demand for increasingly powerful chips, this year's event comes at a critical time for the industry. The focus is now on how Taiwanese chipmakers will seize the opportunities created by the AI boom to help shape what comes next. Patrick Chen, NIT, in Taipei for Taiwan Plus.