TUCSON, AZ (September 23, 2025) -- As economic ties between Arizona and Taiwan continue to accelerate — marked by record foreign direct investment — the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA) led a delegation of more than 50 Arizona business, academic, and community leaders on a trade mission to Taiwan.
Representatives from Southern Arizona included Pima County Economic Development (PCECD), the University of Arizona, and the UA Center for Innovation (UACI).
A key milestone of the visit was the signing of a Declaration of Collaboration among PCECD, the University of Arizona, the National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), the Arizona Trade and Investment Office (ATIO), and the ACA. The agreement sets forth a shared commitment to strengthen partnerships in economic growth, workforce development, research and innovation, and exchange programs.
Central to the declaration is the creation of a Talent and Innovation Hub in Arizona, jointly organized by the University of Arizona and NYCU, with support from PCECD, ATIO, and ACA. The Hub will serve as a platform for research, education, and industry collaboration, advancing cross-border opportunities in emerging technologies.
“This declaration among partners is an important step forward, not only in advancing economic growth through academia-government collaboration, but also in deepening research and development ties between the UA and NYCU. Together, we are building a better-prepared workforce and setting the stage for sustainable growth and future innovation,” said Heath Vescovi-Chiordi, Director of Pima County Economic Development.
The weeklong visit also included meetings with Taiwan-based businesses, participation in SEMICON Taiwan, and discussions aimed at expanding workforce partnerships and collaboration in AI, semiconductors, and other critical industries.