Basiran
The Committee has formally expressed its appreciation for the Taiwan government’s steadfast commitment to advancing high-priority policy objectives, specifically emphasizing digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and the fortification of cyber resilience. As the global landscape shifts toward a data-driven economy, these initiatives have become increasingly interconnected, forming a complex ecosystem where telecommunications infrastructure serves as the essential backbone for national competitiveness. In a comprehensive set of recommendations, the Committee highlights that the media and entertainment sectors are no longer merely cultural assets but are vital drivers of economic growth, employment, and Taiwan’s burgeoning soft power on the global stage. To sustain this momentum, the Committee argues that Taiwan must transition from legacy regulatory frameworks toward a more agile, evidence-based policy environment that fosters innovation while maintaining a predictable landscape for international investors.
The Strategic Convergence of AI and Telecommunications Infrastructure
At the heart of Taiwan’s modernization efforts is the necessity of a robust telecommunications ecosystem. The Committee emphasizes that the telecommunications industry provides the fundamental infrastructure for voice, data, and multimedia transmission, yet it currently faces a dual challenge: a scale significantly smaller than international counterparts and an environment of escalating geopolitical risks. To facilitate the development and application of artificial intelligence, the Committee suggests that the government provide continuous incentives to reduce regulatory burdens. This is particularly crucial as Taiwan aims to implement its "Smart Nation 2.0" strategy, which seeks to integrate AI across all sectors of society.
Data from the telecommunications sector suggests that while Taiwan has high mobile penetration, the operational pressures on domestic carriers are intensifying. The Committee recommends a shift in focus toward "AI-native" network architectures. As the world looks toward 6G, which is expected to be standardized by 2030, Taiwan must begin its planning now. 6G is not merely a faster version of 5G; it is an intelligent network capable of automated maintenance and real-time anomaly detection, which significantly enhances national resilience against interference—a critical concern given Taiwan’s unique geopolitical position.
Strengthening Digital Resilience and Subsea Connectivity
A primary concern raised in the policy roadmap is the vulnerability and cost of Taiwan’s primary connections to the outside world: submarine cables. These cables are the lifeblood of Taiwan’s digital economy, yet the costs of maintaining and protecting them are rising due to regional tensions and complex regulatory requirements. The Committee notes that the government’s "Forward-looking Infrastructure Development Program" is slated to expire in 2025. This creates a potential funding gap for telecommunications operators who are tasked with improving mobile communication in rural areas and ensuring the redundancy of international connections.
To address this, the Committee urges the government to maintain subsidies for rural connectivity and to streamline the regulatory hurdles associated with landing and maintaining subsea cables. Strengthening digital resilience is not just a technical requirement but a national security imperative. The proposed measures include a more coordinated effort between the Ministry of Transportation and Communications and the Ministry of Digital Affairs to ensure that the infrastructure can withstand both natural disasters and potential gray-zone activities that might target Taiwan’s connectivity.
Advancing Spectrum Planning for 5G SA and 6G Networks
Spectrum is a finite and precious resource. The Committee underscores the importance of early planning for the refarming and release of mobile communications, satellite services, and microwave spectrum. Following the recent consolidation of the Taiwanese telecommunications market from five major players down to three, the industry has entered a phase of intense competition and collaboration. The Committee recommends that the government facilitate the construction of 5G Standalone (SA) networks, which offer lower latency and higher reliability compared to the Non-Standalone (NSA) networks currently in wide use.
Furthermore, the Committee points to international best practices, suggesting that frequency bands such as the 700 MHz, 900 MHz, and 1800 MHz—set to expire in 2030—should be planned for re-release as soon as possible. By aligning with global spectrum trends, Taiwan can ensure that its hardware and software developers are working within a framework that allows for global export and compatibility. This is essential for maintaining Taiwan’s leadership in the global ICT supply chain while simultaneously upgrading its domestic network capabilities.
Regulatory Reform: Moving Toward a "Light-Touch" Approach
A recurring theme in the Committee’s recommendations is the need to move away from outdated, prescriptive regulations. The Telecommunications Management Act has opened the market, allowing diverse industries to offer digital communication services. However, traditional operators remain tethered to strict requirements that do not apply to their newer, digital-only competitors. The Committee argues that this regulatory asymmetry hinders the industry’s ability to invest in green sustainability and cybersecurity transformation.
Similarly, in the media sector, the Committee urges the National Communications Commission (NCC) to adopt a "light-touch" regulatory model for satellite and cable TV operators. As viewers shift toward Video-on-Demand (VOD) and Over-the-Top (OTT) platforms, traditional channel operators are at a disadvantage. By relaxing procedural requirements and affording equal treatment to all content providers, the government can ensure a level playing field. The Committee notes that a well-functioning NCC, characterized by predictable decision-making and stakeholder engagement, is vital for the health of the media ecosystem.
Fostering the Creative Economy and OTT Sector Growth
Taiwan’s OTT sector has emerged as a key driver of the creative economy and a primary vehicle for projecting cultural soft power. International streaming platforms are not only distributors of content but also significant investors in local Taiwanese productions. The Committee warns that extending legacy broadcasting frameworks to these digital platforms could deter investment and disrupt the global operations of these services.
The Committee points out that OTT platforms already utilize robust self-regulatory mechanisms, such as content ratings and parental controls. There is little evidence to suggest that systemic consumer harm is occurring under the current model. Therefore, additional prescriptive regulations should be avoided unless a clear, evidence-based need is identified. Instead, the focus should be on creating an environment that encourages cross-border collaboration and distribution. By remaining aligned with international practices, Taiwan can solidify its position as a regional hub for content creation, supporting jobs and skills development in the local film and television industry.
Enhancing Copyright Enforcement and Music Licensing Transparency
Effective copyright protection is indispensable for a thriving creative economy. While Taiwan has made strides in its legal framework, online piracy remains a persistent threat. The Committee highlights that criminal cases against piracy often take years to resolve, and the proceeds of such illegal activities are rarely seized effectively. To combat this, the Committee recommends a more streamlined, "one-stop" administrative framework for site-blocking, similar to the models adopted by South Korea, Malaysia, and Indonesia. These regional peers have successfully implemented expedited review timelines that allow for faster action against infringing domains.
Furthermore, the proliferation of Illicit Streaming Devices (ISDs) poses a threat not only to intellectual property but also to cybersecurity, as these devices are frequently pre-loaded with malware. The Committee suggests that Taiwan look to Singapore’s proactive enforcement approach as a reference for strengthening its own measures against the sale and distribution of ISDs.
In the realm of music licensing, the Committee calls for greater transparency in the royalty rate-setting processes of Collective Management Organizations (CMOs). Currently, the lack of structured dialogue and predictable methodologies creates an imbalance in negotiations, often leading to disputes that stifle the digital content market. By adopting models from Japan and South Korea—where rate-setting methodologies are disclosed in advance and subject to stakeholder input—Taiwan can create a more balanced and innovation-friendly licensing ecosystem.
Implications for Taiwan’s Global Standing
The implementation of these recommendations would have profound implications for Taiwan’s economic and strategic standing. By modernizing its regulatory environment and investing in resilient, AI-native infrastructure, Taiwan can transition from being a hardware manufacturing powerhouse to a leader in the global digital and creative economies. The Committee’s vision is one of a "Smart Nation" where technological prowess is matched by a flexible, forward-looking policy framework.
In conclusion, the path forward for Taiwan requires a departure from the "command and control" regulatory styles of the past. Success in the age of AI and global digital competition depends on meaningful stakeholder engagement, risk-based regulatory principles, and a commitment to protecting intellectual property. If the government can successfully navigate these reforms, Taiwan will not only enhance its digital competitiveness but also ensure that its cultural influence continues to grow on the world stage, secured by a foundation of technological excellence and robust digital resilience.
Evan Lee Salim
Nana
