The Ministry of Digital Affairs (the MODA) convened the first meeting of the Digital Economy Development Advisory Council on December 2 to promote the development of the digital economy. The council comprises industry, academia, and research experts, providing bottom-up recommendations and channels. Minister Yennun Huang stated that through the diverse perspectives and discussions among the advisory members, the MODA aims to gather various opinions as essential references for future planning and implementation of Taiwan’s digital development policies, strategies, and measures, thereby consolidating the environment for digital development and transformation and improving national competitiveness.

The Digital Economy Development Advisory Council is positioned as a ministerial-level policy advisory task force, operating similarly to the Executive Yuan’s DIGI+ civil advisory committee, to adopt a bottom-up approach to gathering policy recommendations. Regarding organizational structure, the council is chaired by  Minister Yennun Huang, with three deputy ministers serving as vice chairs and 45 advisory members. The first meeting was held on December 2, and the council meetings will be held twice annually starting in 2025,

Minister Huang pointed out that since taking office, the MODA has focused on three key initiatives: promoting anti-fraud efforts, strengthening digital resilience, and developing the digital economy. The digital economy is a critical issue for Taiwan’s future development. Developing the digital economy requires a safe and fast digital highway network, which must also possess high cybersecurity and resilience features, providing the necessary technologies and tools for the digital transformation of government agencies and making it easier for all industries to utilize this trusted digital economic highway to develop new digital economy sectors.

Minister Huang expressed gratitude for the advisory members’ suggestions regarding the digital development environment and the data, talent, funding, and regulations needed for artificial intelligence development. He emphasized the MODA’s commitment to continuing its efforts and hopes to fully utilize this platform to gather insights and experiences from relevant professionals, jointly fostering an innovative ecosystem for Taiwan’s digital development.