Taiwan to Establish Representative Office in Phoenix, Arizona

Taiwan will open a representative office in Phoenix, Arizona, as part of efforts to enhance economic, technological, educational, and supply chain cooperation with the United States, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). The announcement was made on July 3, 2023.

MOFA highlighted Phoenix's growing significance as a technology hub, particularly due to the expansion of Taiwanese semiconductor investments in the area. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC), the world's largest contract chipmaker, has established a significant presence in Arizona, with its first fabrication plant expected to begin mass production in late 2024. A second plant has been completed, with production anticipated to start in the latter half of 2027, and a third facility is currently under construction.

Earlier this year, Taiwan and Phoenix signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at fostering high-tech talent and enhancing collaboration in AI-driven industries. The timeline for the opening of the new representative office has not been disclosed.

Once operational, this office will be Taiwan's 14th representative office in the United States, joining existing offices in major cities including Washington, D.C., New York, and San Francisco. The American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) noted that this expansion reflects the robust and enduring U.S.-Taiwan partnership, particularly in the semiconductor and advanced technology sectors.