Organized by the Ministry of Ocean Affairs, the 2025 Taiwan International Ocean Forum brings together, on July 2 and 3 in Taipei, around one hundred policymakers, researchers, and industry leaders from over 15 countries. The event aims to thoroughly examine the increasingly complex geopolitical landscape and emerging security challenges, while promoting regional and global cooperation on ocean governance.
On July 1, President Lai Ching-te hosted participants of the forum at the Presidential Office, including Thomas McDevitt, Chairman of the U.S. daily The Washington Times, Gavin Williamson, Member of the UK Parliament, and Kikawada Hitoshi, a member of Japan’s House of Representatives.
President Lai reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to working with global partners to promote ocean prosperity and sustainable development for future generations. Taiwan is responsible for 10% of the world’s container shipping volume, making the ocean not only essential to the nation’s survival but also a key driver of its prosperity. He stated that one of his administration’s goals is to develop Taiwan’s strengths as a maritime nation, with ongoing transformation in the energy, fisheries, and shipping sectors.
He also emphasized how Taiwan is leveraging marine technologies and digital innovation to create a new model that balances environmental protection with economic and social development.
In response to China’s ongoing “gray zone” strategy, President Lai said the government is continuing to build coast guard vessels and strengthen the deployment of drones and smart surveillance equipment both underwater, on the surface, and in the air. He reiterated Taiwan’s determination to uphold freedom, democracy, peace, and stability across the Taiwan Strait.
On July 2, the forum was officially opened by Minister of Ocean Affairs Kuan Bi-ling, who noted that current ocean issues have expanded beyond traditional resource protection. They now represent a strategic pillar for regional security, economic resilience, and the international order. She welcomed participants from Israel, South Korea, the United States, India, and the Philippines.
The first day of the forum focused on security challenges in the Indo-Pacific. Deputy Secretary-General of the National Security Council, Lin Fei-fan, highlighted that “gray zone” incursions have become a global maritime security issue, not only around Taiwan but also near democratic nations such as those in the Baltic Sea.
“The ocean connects Taiwan to countries around the world. We hope to deepen international cooperation through dialogue platforms and demonstrate Taiwan’s substantive contribution as a trusted global partner,” he said.
The second day centered on the blue economy, starting with the restructuring of supply chains and the transition to carbon neutrality. Key topics included blue carbon markets, green maritime finance, smart ocean monitoring, and sustainable fisheries.
Source: taiwaninfo
