Window on the ATBC No. 14

Dear Members and Friends,

As we approach the end of 2024, we would like to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks for your continued support and appreciation of our shared space between Australia and Taiwan. This year has been one of growth, collaboration, and meaningful connections, and we are grateful to have had you alongside us in this journey.

Reflecting on some of the highlights from this year, we are proud of the milestones we’ve reached together, the vibrant exchanges we’ve fostered, and the enduring partnerships that have strengthened our ties. Your support has been instrumental in making these achievements possible, and we are excited to carry this momentum forward into 2025.

2024 EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES (January to December):

1. Chair and CEO’s trip to Taiwan – 4th to 8th March 2024

Our meetings took place as follows:

1. Mr Bruce Hung, Director General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA)
2. Ms Yvonne Seeto and Mr John Duthie, ANZ Taiwan
3. CEO paid a visit to the heart of CreatorDB and hosted by Mr Noah Hyham
4. Mr Robert Fergusson, Representative, Australian Office Taipei
5. Lunch hosted by Chairman Henry Koa, CIECA
6. CEO attended International Women’s Day Breakfast at Australian Office Taipei
7. Mr Ben Miao, VP of International Depart of Cathay Financial Holdings (Virtual meeting)
8. Ms Sharon Lin, CEO, Taishin Bank
9. Minister Joseph Wu, Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA)
10. Ms Jane Liao / Vice President and her colleagues of CPC
11. Dr Jeffrey Chen, Chair of Macquarie Green Investment
12. Mayor Chiang Wan-an, City of Taipei
13. Vice Minister Chern-Chyi (CC) Chen, Ministry of Economic Affairs (MoEA)
14. ATBC hosted a dinner with the emerging business leaders and Australian Journos in Taipei
15. Mr Johnny Wang, Managing Director, Head of International Banking Division and other senior personnel of Taipei Fubon Bank
16. Lunch hosted by Chairman Joseph Lyu, Bank of Taiwan
17. Dinner hosted by Dr Tom Lin, Chair of Belite and Gene Company

2. Treasure Island of Business Opportunity: Taiwan – Tuesday, 26th March 2024 at Cornwalls Melbourne

Here’s a summary of the key points:

1. Taiwan-Australia Trade Growth: Taiwan has become Australia’s fifth-largest trading partner and its fourth-largest export market. Taiwan’s economy is expected to grow at a rate of 3% in 2024, significantly outpacing Australia’s projected growth.
2. Election and Political Landscape in Taiwan: In Taiwan’s January elections, voters supported the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) government under incoming President William Lai. However, they also voted in a parliament that requires negotiation for legislation, reflecting a pragmatic approach to governance.
3. Economic Characteristics of Taiwan: Taiwan’s middle-class population and tech sector, particularly in semiconductor manufacturing, are comparable to Australia’s. Taiwan is eager to expand trade and investment ties with Australia.
4. Networking Event: A cocktail reception was jointly hosted by the ATBC, CACCI (Confederation of Asia-Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry), and ATC (Australia-Taiwan Club). The event provided an opportunity for attendees to network and learn about business opportunities. Distinguished expert Professor John Fitzgerald, who had recently been a Visiting Scholar at National Chengchi University in Taiwan, offered insights on Taiwan and China. We were very grateful for Mr Peter McMullin AM, President of CACCI to provide the venue and F&B to make this event more livable.

This reflects both Taiwan’s rising importance in the global economic landscape and Australia’s growing relationship with it.

3. ATBC – Business Luncheon – Tuesday 23rd April 2024

Chair Toigo and I hosted a luncheon at the NSW Parliament House in Sydney, which was primarily aimed at bringing together Taiwanese Banks in Australia and a representative from China Airlines. The event provided a platform for lively and engaging conversations, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration among the Taiwanese bankers and airlines present.

4. ATBC Dinner and MoU Signing Ceremony in Brisbane – 2nd May 2024

Chair Toigo and I attended the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between GreenHarvest, a leading Taiwanese energy integration service provider, and H2U Australia, a next-generation electrolyzer developer. The event took place at the QLD Parliament House and marked a pivotal moment for collaboration in sustainable energy.

The partnership between GreenHarvest and H2U Australia is poised to leverage their collective expertise in critical areas like infrastructure design, contracting, and maintenance for transportation, storage, and power generation. This collaboration is a significant step towards advancing sustainable energy solutions, contributing to a greener future for both Taiwan and Australia.

The signing ceremony were witnessed by key dignitaries, including QLD Treasurer Hon Cameron Dick MP and Taiwan Representative in Australia Mr Douglas Hsu, making it a high-profile event that underscored the growing ties between the two nations.

Chair Toigo and I hosted a dinner afterwards for the Taiwanese banks in Brisbane along with representatives from China Airlines and Eva Air

The small dinner gathering was an excellent opportunity to strengthen business relationships and exchange insights not only in the financial sector, with the Taiwanese banks, but also in the context of airline operations between Taiwan and Australia, creating an all-around platform for further collaboration across industries.

5. Taiwan High Tech Automation and Decarbonisation Seminar – Monday 20th May 2024

I represented ATBC attending the seminar was hosted by Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Australia and Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA in Perth. This event featured insightful speakers from organizations such as:

• The Chamber of Minerals and Energy of Western Australia (CME)
• Advantech Australia
• TECO Group Taiwan

The discussion focused on electrifying mining and energy in Australia, with an emphasis on exchanging ideas and solutions related to energy transformation, particularly in the mining sector.

This event provided an opportunity for professionals and stakeholders in the mining and energy sectors to gain valuable insights, share knowledge, and explore opportunities for collaboration between Taiwan and Australia.

6. ATBC – Perth Dinner on Tuesday 21st May 2024

A special memorable occasion hosted by ATBC where one of our former Chairs, Mr Ken Court AM, along with his wife Lorraine, the dinner for WA members and friends and Mr Douglas Hsu, Representative of TECO in Australia was our guest of honoured. The gathering took place at the well-known restaurant Garum in Perth, and it was a great opportunity for people to come together and enjoy good company and conversation.

7. Chair Toigo’s Trip to Taiwan – 28th to 30th May 2024

Meetings:

• Australia’s Representative to Taiwan – Mr Robert Fergusson
• Austrade: separate meeting with Mr John Madew (Acting Deputy Representative and Senior Trade Commissioner), and other senior Austrade representatives
• Attendance at ANZCham function: Minerals to Mobility
• New Qld Trade and Investment Commissioner to Taiwan: Ms Juna Ferrett
• Lin Bioscience Inc/Intelligence: Dr Irene Wang (CEO) and Mr Patrick Hafenstein (Chief Business Officer)
• China Steel Corporation – President Dr Shyi-Chin Wang and executive team members.

8. ATBC AGM 2024 – Tuesday, 9h July 2024 at 1 Shelley Street, Sydney

The Macquarie Group hosted the ATBC Annual General Meeting (AGM), followed by a Business Luncheon. During the AGM, Chairman Toigo and Hon. Treasurer Cheng presented their reports, both in writing and verbally, providing important updates on the ATBC’s performance and financial outlook.

At the Business Luncheon, the keynote address was delivered by Mr Ric Deverell, Chief Economist and Head of Net Zero at Macquarie Group. Mr Deverell shared a highly insightful analysis of global economic trends, with a particular focus on regional growth and economic outlooks within China and Taiwan. His perspective offered valuable information for attendees, highlighting the complexities and opportunities in these key markets.

9. 37th Joint Conference of ATBC and ROCABC (37th JBC) – Wednesday to Saturday 7th to 10th August 2024 at Gold Coast Queensland

The 37th Joint Conference of the Australia-Taiwan Business Council (ATBC) and ROC-Australia Business Council (ROCABC), held at the Gold Coast from 7-10 August 2024, was a resounding success. ATBC extends its sincere gratitude to the key sponsors, including Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ) and the Gold Coast City Council (GCCC), as well as all other sponsors and supporters. The conference would not have been possible without the exceptional contributions of the distinguished speakers and the active participation of attendees from both Australia and Taiwan. Their efforts were crucial in making this event a great achievement.

The highlights of the 37th JBC, as reflected in the conference theme – ‘Australia and Taiwan: Smart Partnerships for a Smart Future,’ include:

1. Welcome Gala Dinner – Wednesday 7th August 2024 at SkyPoint Surfers ParadiseDignitaries attending the dinner included Acting Mayor of the Gold Coast (Councillor Donna Gates), Mr John-Paul Langbroek (State Member for Surfers Paradise), Mr Robert Fergusson – Australian Office Taipei (Australia’s Representative to Taiwan), Mr Douglas Hsu – Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Australia (Taiwan’s Representative to Australia), Mr Peter McMullin AM (President, Confederation of Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry), Mr Henry Kao (Chairman of Chinese International Economic Cooperation Association), Mr Thomas Wu (Chairman of The Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce, Taiwan), Dr Shyi-Chin Wang (Chairman of ROCABC) and Mr John Toigo (Chairman of ATBC).Acting Mayor, Councillor Donna Gates, representing the City of Gold Coast as one of the principal partners of the Conference, provided her welcome remarks proudly showcasing the Gold Coast’s capabilities and opportunities for investment.The father and daughter team of David and Sophia Eurell – with David playing the didgeridoo and Sophia signing in native tongue conveyed a haunting and enchanting repertoire of Aboriginal and music songs that won much praise.The convivial session created an atmosphere friendship that creating not only a memorable and enjoyable occasion for attendees, but set the tone and mood for the rest of the Conference.
2. Conference – Thursday 8th August 2024 at Sofitel Broadbeach
   • Opening Ceremony: The Conference began with remarks from notable dignitaries, including Chairman John Toigo (ATBC), Chairman Shyi-Chin Wang (ROCABC), Senator the Honourable Tim Ayres (Assistant Minister for Future Made in Australia and Assistant Minister for Trade), the Honourable Cameron Dick MP (Deputy Premier of Queensland) and other high-ranking government officials from Taiwan.
   • Critical Minerals: This session emphasised the importance of critical minerals in Queensland’s resource history and explored business perspectives on low-carbon transition, along with strategies for secure and sustainable supply chains.
   • Energy Transition: Presentations covered Taiwan’s strategy for energy transition focusing on hydrogen, innovations for a sustainable future, Queensland’s hydrogen projects. A panel discussion further delved into the role of emerging business leaders in shaping the future.
   • Biotechnology: Speakers highlight recent developments in Taiwan’s bio-industry, discussing emerging opportunities, regulatory changes, and investment prospects, as well as advancements in Queensland’s biotechnology sector, and opportunities on the Gold Coast.
   • Advanced Manufacturing/Defence & Space: This session focuses on cost-competitive space launch systems and Australia’s potential in space launches, with insights from leading industry experts, including Gilmour Space Technologies.
   • Cybersecurity: Presentations addressed the frontier of quantum computing in Asia-Pacific security defence and strategies to make Australia the most cyber-resilient nation by 2030.
   • Panel Discussion: The panel featured emerging business leaders from Australia and Taiwan, discussing their visions and strategies for future bilateral collaboration and industry advancement.
   • Closing Ceremony and Endorsement: The Conference concluded with endorsements supporting Taiwan’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and closing remarks from both chairmen of ATBC and ROCABC.
   • Bilateral Joint Executive Meeting: A private meeting will be held for invited members of the ROC-Australia and Australia-Taiwan Business Councils to discuss strategic cooperation.
   • Farewell Dinner: Hosted by ROCABC/CIECA, Taiwan, this dinner served as the final networking opportunity, featuring remarks from respective Representatives from Taiwan Mr Douglas Hsu and Australia Mr Robert Fergusson. Additionally, ATBC Chairman Awards were presented to recognise the contribution of China Steel Corporation in resources sector (presented to Dr Shyi-Chin Wang) and to Gene Company Pty Ltd in the biotech sector (presented to Mr Baden Chao-Liang Lin, Ms Nadia Yun-Ju Huang and Mr Jerry Hsien-Jung Huang).

   The Conference served as a pivotal platform in enhancing Australia-Taiwan relations, promoting cross-border collaborations, and exploring new opportunities in critical sectors that are essential for both nations’ future growth.

3. The Australia and Taiwan Business Forum – Sofitel Broadbeach from 09:00 – 12:00 on Friday 9th August 2024This forum provided a significant platform for highlighting new investment opportunities between Australia and Taiwan, including those on the Gold Coast.Key Objectives and Discussions:The Forum aimed to enhance mutual understanding and cooperation between Australian and Taiwanese stakeholders by showcasing sector-specific opportunities and addressing key challenges. Discussions centred around creating a conducive environment for investment through government support, strategic partnerships, and cross-industry collaboration.Sector-Specific Insights:
   • Tourism: Mr Jeff McAlister, Chief Investment Officer of the City of Gold Coast, highlighted the region’s burgeoning tourism industry. His presentation underscored the Gold Coast’s rapid economic growth, significant infrastructure developments, and the shift towards high end luxury tourism in anticipation of the 2032 Olympics. The city’s strategic investments in infrastructure and diversification into emerging sectors were positioned as key attractions for investors.
   • Agribusiness and Food: Mr Tony Eyres, Executive Director of Rounding Up Pty Ltd, provided a comprehensive overview of Australia’s agribusiness sector. His insights included Australia’s strengths in premium protein products and innovations in food production. He discussed the potential for Taiwanese investors to engage in partnership models and explore high-value opportunities in Australia’s diverse agricultural regions.
   • Resources and Infrastructure: Mr Darren Bradfield, Head of Corporate Finance QLD at ANZ, discussed Queensland’s substantial infrastructure investments and resource extraction projects. He emphasised the state’s commitment to renewable energy and hydrogen production, outlining significant developments aimed at enhancing regional connectivity and supporting sustainable growth.
   • Regulatory and Cross-Industry Opportunities: Mr Vincent Chang, Partner at KPMG Taiwan, explored the regulatory landscape and cross-industry investment opportunities. He addressed the challenges and opportunities in renewable energy, vocational training, and the pharmaceutical sector, advocating for deeper bilateral collaboration and regulatory alignment.
   • Digital and Technology: Ms Susie Chen, Sector Sales Manager at Advantech Australia Pty Ltd, shared insights into the growth and innovation within Australia’s digital and technology sectors. Her presentation highlighted Advantech’s role in advancing technologies related to renewable energy, automation, and AI, and the company’s successful integration into the Australian market.
4. Saturday 10th August 2024 – Special Site VisitATBC is grateful for the arrangement by one of National Committee members of ATBC – Mr Tony Eyres – the remaining Taiwan delegation visited the Scenic Rim – which has been described as one of Queensland’s great natural treasure troves.A visit to Moffatt Farms at Tarome provided an appreciation of the second largest carrot farming operation in Australia – with operations spread over the south-east corner of Queensland.This Conference served as a crucial platform for fostering economic exchanges and cooperation between the business sectors of Taiwan and Australia.

10. Double Ten – 113h National Day of Taiwan ROC Receptions in Sydney and in Melbourne on 4th October and Brisbane on Wednesday, 9th October 2024

The Board of ATBC presented at each city to help with the celebrations.

11. CEO’s trip to Taiwan – 17th to 18th October 2024

1. Met up with Mr Robert Fergusson, Mr Christopher Lim and Mr Dan Bowman of Australian Office Taipei;
2. Lunch meeting with Mr Glenn Lio, CEO of ANZCham;
3. Visited Taiwan Startup Terrace with Noah Hynam, President & Co-Founder of CreatorDB;
4. Met up with Ms Juna Ferrett, Taiwan Commissioner of Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ);
5. Lunch meeting the CIECA/ROCABC – Mr Frank Wu, Secretary General and Ms Muse Wu, Director.

The meetings provided an opportunity to discuss and explore potential collaborations for the upcoming 38th Joint Conference and other activities in Taiwan. ATBC is grateful for the support and guidance of the organizations mentioned above and looks forward to working with them in 2025.

12. 28th Taiwan-Australia Bilateral Economic Consultations (BEC) – 22nd October 2024 in Canberra

ATBC provided another the ATBC BEC Submission to both Australia and Taiwan governments before the BEC. Vice Chair Callick presented at the BEC in person. The Australian Delegation was led by Ms Elly Lawon, Deputy Secretary of DFAT and the Taiwan Delegation was led by Deputy Minister Chern-Chyi (CC) Chen of MoEA and also two Representatives – Mr Robert Fergusson, Australian Office Taipei and Mr Douglas Yu-Tien Hsu, TECO in Australia.

13. Australia + Taiwan: The Smart Opportunities Multiply – Tuesday, 3rd December 2024 at Cornwalls Melbourne

Once again, it was a remarkable joint event organized by ATBC, CACCI and TAC and kindly sponsored by Mr Peter McMullin AM, Preside of CACCI! The event focused on strengthening the ties between Australia and Taiwan, featuring senior federal politicians such as Dr Daniel Mulino MP (Labour, Chair of the Parliamentary Committee on Economic) and Senator James Paterson (Liberal, Shadow Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security, and Shadow Cabinet Secretary) both highlighted their admiration for Taiwan’s democratic values and expressed strong support for deeper bilateral relations. It was also addressed by Mr Ray Lu, Director General of TECO in Melbourne amongst 60 attendees from state government, academics and business sectors.

The session provided valuable networking opportunities and reinforced the growing momentum for collaboration between Australia and Taiwan across various sectors.

WORTH A MENTION

Chairman’s Award 2024

ATBC delighted to present this Award to the following companies and key personal:

• China Steel Corporation (CSC) for their outstanding in resources sector and presented to President Dr Shyi-Chin Wang
• Gene Company Pty Ltd (Gene Co) and its Senior Executives for their outstanding contribution to the deepening of investment ties between Australia and Taiwan for the betterment of humankind and support of the Australia-Taiwan Business Council as follows:

1. Baden Chao-Liang Lin, Executive Chairman
2. Nadia Yun-Ju Huang, Managing Director
3. Jerry Hsien-Jung Huang, Executive Director

The New Members Since August 2024

ATBC welcomes the following new members:

1. Mr Attilio Pigneri, Founder and CEO the Hydrogen Utility (H2U)
2. Ms Kelly Chew, Managing Director of Frubetto Holdings Pty Ltd
3. Mr Anthony Christian, Founder and CEO of Queensland Semiconductor Initiative (QSI)
4. Ms Patty Leung, Senior Business Development Executive of the Logan City Council
5. Mr James Stewart, Director of Aero Vanguard
6. Ms Madeline Dermatossian, Managing Director of Promontory Australia
7. Mr Kurt Huang, General Manager Australia of HD Renewable Energy Australia

The New Representatives to Taiwan from State and Federal

1. Ms Juna Ferrett, a warm welcome to the new Queensland Trade and Investment Commissioner to Taiwan, succeeding Mr Patrick Hafenstein. Ms Ferrett brings valuable expertise to the role, and her appointment marks an exciting new chapter in strengthening Queensland’s trade and investment ties with Taiwan. Her experience in fostering international relations and driving economic growth will play a key role in furthering Queensland’s interests in the region.We would like to extend its sincere thanks to Mr Hafenstein for his invaluable efforts during his tenure as Queensland Trade and Investment Commissioner to Taiwan. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and look forward to seeing his continued success.
2. Mr Christopher Lim, Deputy Representative and Senior Trade Commissioner of Australian Office Taipei. He brings a wealth of experience to his role, with a distinguished career in both diplomacy and trade/investment. As a senior executive, Mr Lim has developed significant expertise in fostering international relations and promoting bilateral trade opportunities. His work involves strengthening economic ties and advancing Australia’s interests in Taiwan, reflecting his extensive background in regional trade and diplomatic affairs.

The Upcoming Events in 2025

1. Sustainable basics and ESG trends in finance – hosts by ANZ in Sydney around 25th March 2025 (Date/Venue TBC)
2. 38th Joint Conference of ATBC and ROCABC in Taiwan – around FY2025-26 – (Dates/Venue TBC)
3. Others – ATBC AGM in July in Sydney and End of Financial Year Networking Cocktails in Brisbane (Dates/Venues TBC)

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Merry Christmas to you and your family and have a safe, healthy and prosperous the Year of Snake. 🙂

Best wishes

Ching–Mei Maddock (She/Her)
Chief Executive Officer

23rd December 2024
chingmei@atbc.asn.au