ROC joins Enterprise Europe Network

2015/05/29

Taiwan was admitted to Enterprise Europe Network May 27, opening the door to a broad spectrum of business opportunities for the nation’s small and medium enterprises.

The country, which has been seeking membership since 2012, will be represented by Industrial Technology Research Institute, Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers’ Association and Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA).

“This development represents a milestone in ROC government efforts to help local SMEs tap the potential-laden EU market,” an official from the Bureau of Foreign Trade under the Ministry of Economic Affairs said.

“Membership will assist local firms in sharpening innovation and technological capabilities, while promoting bilateral exchanges with the 23,000-plus SMEs in Europe.”

Sources familiar with the matter believe that one of the main goals of the nation’s EEN participation is promoting bilateral cooperation in key industries such as auto parts, biotechnology, electronics, green products and medical equipment.

Separately, Daniel Calleja, head of the Directorate-General for Internal Market, Industry, Entreprenurship and SMEs under the European Commission, is leading a mission June 3-5 to Taipei City.

During the visit, representatives of European business associations and enterprises will take part in the annual Computex Taipei and discuss with Taiwan counterparts ways of fostering cooperation.

According to EEN, the delegation is particularly interested in identifying business opportunities in sectors spanning biotechnology, business services, energy, environmental protection, machinery and nanotechnology.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=230884&ctNode=413)