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Apr 10, 04:11
AI, robotics, and drones to take center stage at Hong Kong's upcoming premier tech fairs
Hong Kong is set to host its premier technology showcases this spring, as the 3rd edition of the Hong Kong International Innovation & Technology Expo (InnoEX) and the 21st spring edition of the Hong Kong Electronics Fair will take place from April 13-16, 2025 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. These twin fairs serve as the core events of the city's "Business of Innovation and Technology Week" (BIT Week), spotlighting cutting-edge innovations and the latest electronics trends.
Taiwan's National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) plans to release patents and technologies for three reconnaissance drone models to private manufacturers, shifting its focus to attack drone development amid regional tensions.
Taiwan's Aerospace Industrial Development Corp. (AIDC) is entering a pivotal transformation phase, extending its global footprint beyond its recent Malaysian partnership to establish operations in the United States. The company will integrate biotechnological medical products from Malaysia's Zongheng Group at a new US production facility.
Taiwan's drone industry is undergoing a critical transformation, with Geosat Aerospace & Technology at the forefront. Yung-Lan Yeh, a manager at Geosat, recently highlighted two pivotal challenges in drone development during an interview with DIGITIMES: structural supply chain issues and the fundamental importance of power systems. Yeh emphasized that drones must be developed from an aerospace perspective and warned that without mastering power systems, Taiwan risks falling behind, as even minor imbalances in components like propeller blades could lead to catastrophic failures.
Taiwan's Aerospace Industrial Development Corp. (AIDC) will conclude its "National Defense Self-Sufficiency" initiative in 2026, with Chairman Kai-Hung Hu warning of challenges ahead despite expectations of improved performance in 2025 compared to 2024.
Taiwan's communications industry faces an annual shortage of 4,500 to 5,500 skilled professionals through 2027, according to the National Development Council, intensifying competition for technical talent as the number of graduates declines against rising industry demand.
Global drone manufacturers are navigating uncertain market conditions as Russia, Ukraine, and the US engage in ceasefire discussions that could end nearly three years of conflict. While European demand shows signs of cooling, industry experts remain divided on the long-term impact.
Taiwan's S-Tech, a specialist alloy materials manufacturer under Taiwan Steel Group, has obtained aerospace-grade superalloy certification from a major US aircraft engine manufacturer, positioning itself to capitalize on shifting global supply chains amid US-China trade tensions.
IP provider Ceva has been actively entering the edge AI sector in recent years. In an interview with DIGITIMES, CEO Amir Panush stated that edge AI presents significant market opportunities and will be a key growth engine for Ceva in the coming years.
Microcontroller (MCU) vendor Sonix Technology has ventured into the drone market by launching a high-resolution digital image transmission system to enhance the real-time control of unmanned vehicles.
The collaboration between Taiwan and Japan in the drone sector is taking shape. The Taiwanese Excellence Drone Alliance (TEDIBOA) has recently formed a new partnership with the Japan Drone Consortium (JDC). Both parties announced further cooperation as Ann Wu, chairman of CIRC, signed a memorandum of understanding with Kenzo Nonami, chairman of JDC.
The National Science and Technology Council (NSTC) has designated a national launch site in Jiupeng Village, Manzhoug Township, Pingtung County, at the fourth site selection review meeting on March 26. In its press release announcing the site's selection, the NSTC also noted the government's plans for aerospace outreach at the site, such as a space museum or education center, with the goal of benefitting the locale. Ensuing detailed planning and environmental evaluation will begin after the announcement.