Taiwan lists critical technologies to face stringent controls

Taipei, Dec. 5 (CNA) Taiwan's top science agency unveiled a set of key technologies on Tuesday that will be subject to heightened controls to prevent technology leaks and bolster industrial competitiveness.

The 22 key technologies cover five industries: defense, aerospace, agriculture, semiconductors and ICT (information and communications technology), the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) said in a press release.

The term "key technologies" refers to technologies that, if exported to China, Macau, Hong Kong or "external hostile forces," would significantly harm national security, industrial competitiveness, or economic development, the NSTC said, citing the National Security Act.

The list encompasses anti-interference and satellite control technologies, as well as methods used to manufacture semiconductors using advanced manufacturing processes (14 nanometers or below), the NSTC noted.

The agency said defense and aerospace technologies have achieved a level of autonomy regarding their development due to national security imperatives and technological development.

Agricultural technology features on the list because of its connection to food security and the economy, it said, adding that semiconductor technology is on there due to Taiwanese firms holding the leading market share globally.

The significant impact of semiconductor technology on Taiwan's economic development and industrial competitiveness justifies its inclusion, the NSTC said.

ICT, meanwhile, is core to Taiwan's national security, digital technology, and the protection of the nation's critical infrastructure, according to the NSTC.

In the event of technical secrets being leaked, it said, an investigation will be initiated per relevant regulations, including the Intellectual Property Case Adjudication Act.

The news of the list first came to light when Nikkei Asia released a report in October citing National Security Council Secretary-General Wellington Koo (顧立雄) as saying that Taiwan would soon announce which technologies need to be protected by the country.

The NSTC said in the release that the list is expected to undergo a three-month review.

During this time, the council and relevant ministries will assess any feedback and remain adaptable to shifts in technological development.