16 September 2024

Academia Sinica Institute of Sociology researcher Wu Jieh-min emphasized at a recent security forum that Taiwan’s security is critical to global stability, particularly through the “Silicon Shield 2.0” strategy he introduced. This strategy seeks to secure the Taiwan Strait, integrate Taiwan more fully into the global production network, and bolster its role in global economic security. Wu argues that Taiwan’s success is essential for maintaining global stability.

Wu highlighted that in a world dependent on semiconductors, the security of one nation impacts all others. The semiconductor supply chain represents a crucial element in the competition between the US and China, where it’s not just about technological prowess but also strategic dominance.

The “Silicon Shield” theory suggests that global reliance on Taiwanese chips could deter Chinese aggression. However, this dependence might also attract Beijing’s interest in Taiwan’s chip production facilities, potentially increasing the risk of aggression. Alternatively, China might ignore the chips altogether and attack Taiwan for other reasons.

These scenarios influence strategic perspectives and global security interests. The significance of Taiwanese chips to the global economy could prompt major powers, particularly the US, to intervene to protect these critical supply lines in the event of a Chinese attack on Taiwan.

Despite China’s advancements in its own semiconductor industry, disrupting global supply chains could inflict greater harm on the US and its allies than on China itself, so the potential for asymmetric damage must be considered, Wu noted.

The US aims to boost its own chip manufacturing capabilities to reduce dependency on a single source, but this is a complex, costly, and time-consuming process. For now, the world will continue to rely on Taiwanese semiconductors.

Wu stressed that ensuring security across the Taiwan Strait is the top priority. He also advocated for Taiwan to take a more proactive international role, viewing global investments as a way to extend Taiwan’s influence. Strengthening the interdependence between Taiwan and democratic nations would enhance supply chain resilience.

As Taiwan’s global interdependence with democratic societies deepens, the need for economic and security cooperation becomes more urgent. However, Taiwan’s international support network remains largely bilateral and informal, which may not suffice given the complex geopolitical landscape.

To foster a secure and resilient semiconductor ecosystem, Wu concluded, a comprehensive strategy is essential.

“Silicon Shield 2.0 provides a roadmap to enhance Taiwan’s role in economic security,” he said. “Taiwan’s success is key to global stability and proves that in a world of interdependent semiconductors, one country’s security is the security of all.”