AUSTIN, Texas — Gov. Greg Abbott announced on Sunday that Texas is working on opening a state office in Taiwan.
The move is an effort to enhance the economic relationship between Texas and Taiwan.
Taiwan is the first stop of Abbott's trip to East Asia. He plans to visit South Korea and Japan next, with a focus on emerging industries like semiconductors and advanced manufacturing. Abbott is set to return to Texas at the end of next week.
“Texas and Taiwan are critical economic partners that seek to drive the future of innovation,” Abbott said. “Today, I am announcing two key initiatives that will help bolster our economic relationship and foster unprecedented prosperity for our two peoples. Both initiatives – an economic agreement and a new State of Texas Taiwan Office – will strengthen the economic and cultural relationship between Texas and Taiwan. By working together, we will ensure our people have the freedom and opportunity to thrive in the growing economies of the 21st century.”
While in Taiwan, Abbott also signed an Economic Development Statement of Intent with Taiwan Minister of Economic Affairs Jyh-Huei Kuo to further boost investment, expand trade and increase innovation in critical industries between Texas and Taiwan. The statement prioritizes collaboration in sectors such as semiconductor manufacturing, electric vehicles and more.
The State of Texas Taiwan Office will operate within the Office of the Governor under the Texas Economic Development & Tourism Office.