Taiwan will be hosting the Word Congress on Information Technology 2017 (WCIT 2017), which is also often called the Olympics of the ICT industry, from September 10th to 13th. The goal is to invite at least 90 ICT experts and delegates from 80 countries to participate in the event. It is estimated that more than 2,500 ICT business leaders from around the world will come to Taipei and attend the Congress. Furthermore, over 100 IT companies, both domestic and foreign, will be on-site to showcase the latest ICT applications and services. Around 10,000 people will visit the important high-tech exhibit, building their ICT dreams and sharing business opportunities together.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs has adopted the slogan “Taiwan, Living the Digital Dream” as the theme of this year’s WCIT to implement the Executive Yuan’s project that aims to promote Taiwan as a digital country. The goal is to re-brand image of Taiwan, as a digital giant with numerous world-leading ranking merits.
“The primary goal of WCIT 2017 is to raise Taiwan’s standing and influence in ICT industry, hoping to initiate the digital dream through round table forum attended by leaders from all over the world and build an international cooperation platform”, said Mr. Tsung-Tsong Wu, Taiwan’s Minister without Portfolio, and Mr. Chih-Kung Lee, Minister of the Economic Affairs, at the second preliminary meeting (on July 5) of WCIT 2017.
It would be the second time that Taiwan hosts the conference since 2000. WCIT 2017 will emphasize on the discussion and demonstration of ICT industry’s latest trends and development. New subjects, such as digital economy, IoT, and circular economy, will also be included. Serving as a part of the global ICT industrial chain, Taiwan has been known for its high quality hardware manufacturing and OEM. However, by adopting the strategy of hardware leading development of software, Taiwan has successfully transformed itself into a superpower in ICT applications and services. For instance, the integrated public transportation services, including MRT, train, and bus, have provided passengers with convenient and smart commuting services; the Wi-Fi coverage is now up to 95%, which means information is easily and effectively accessible to all residents. The excellent quality and affordability of its healthcare system have made Taiwan one of the most popular destinations for medical tourism, and Taiwan’s customs service is now using e-Gate System to provide travelers with secure and efficient services. The electronic toll collection system (ETC) implemented on highways provides travelers with accurate toll services. These achievements have placed Taiwan on top of many world rankings.