Prof. Yih-chyi Chuang, Leading Researcher at the Supply Chain Resilience Center (SCRC) and Professor at National Chengchi University (NCCU), continues to engage with key themes of the SCRC initiative even after returning to Taipei. His recent interview, conducted following a five-month research stay at Charles University in Prague, highlights the strategic potential of Taiwan–Czech cooperation in the semiconductor sector and affirms the long-term value of academic and industrial exchange.

Supported by Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Chuang’s stay in the Czech Republic focused on the evolving role of Taiwanese companies in Europe, particularly in the context of semiconductor supply chains. His research emphasizes the complementarity between Taiwan’s technological leadership and the Czech Republic’s strengths in heavy industry, precision instruments, and optics. This synergy, he argues, holds promise not only for bilateral trade but also for strengthening Europe’s semiconductor landscape.

Prof. Chuang played a leading role in establishing the framework for the bilateral academic initiative that led to the creation of the Supply Chain Resilience Center, jointly developed by NCCU and Charles University. The Center aims to deepen understanding of semiconductor supply chains, assess risks, and propose policy recommendations through joint research, industry consultation, and dialogue with public institutions.

In his reflections, Prof. Chuang underlines the importance of cultural understanding in fostering successful international business operations. He notes that differences in management styles, labor expectations, and regulatory environments require adaptive strategies from Taiwanese enterprises operating in Central Europe. At the same time, he recognizes the Czech Republic’s highly skilled workforce and stable economic environment as key assets in long-term cooperation.

His work during the research residency included site visits to Taiwanese manufacturing facilities, policy-oriented reports, and sustained academic engagement—contributions that continue to inform both government policy and industrial strategy on both sides. Through these efforts, Prof. Chuang is actively contributing to stronger Taiwan–Czech relations, while exemplifying the international mission of the SCRC.

The full interview is available here.