We recently concluded our Taiwan Business Mission, visiting COMPUTEX, ITRI, Hsinchu Science Park and many other companies to learn and collaborate with the manufacturing sector in Taiwan. Let us hear from Ms. Andelyn Oh and Mr. Anthony Tay (Sin Chew Woodpaq) on their experience on this trip.
1.    What was the one moment or visit from the Taiwan mission that genuinely surprised you?
Visiting COMPUTEX was eye opening. The scale and pace of innovation were far beyond what I expected (heard it was bigger than previous years). Seeing how Taiwan integrates startups, global tech leaders, and manufacturers into one ecosystem really surprised me and showed the power of collaboration at scale.
2.    You visited COMPUTEX, ITRI, and Hsinchu Science Park in the span of a few days. What’s the single biggest thing Taiwan does differently that Singapore manufacturers could learn from?
Taiwan’s strength lies in how tightly industry, government, and research institutes work together. The seamless link between ITRI’s R&D, Hsinchu’s industrial base, and COMPUTEX’s global showcase is something Singapore manufacturers could emulate, creating a more connected innovation pipeline.
3.    Did the trip change how you’re thinking about AI or advanced manufacturing for your own business?
Yes, I came away with a clearer sense that AI isn’t just about efficiency, it’s about enabling new business models. Taiwan’s approach to embedding AI into manufacturing convinced me to explore how Sin Chew Woodpaq can use AI not only to optimize logistics but also to create smarter, more adaptive solutions for clients.
4.    Was there a technology or business model you saw in Taiwan that you hadn’t encountered before — and are you looking at applying it here?
One of the most striking things I saw in Taiwan was how seamlessly AI and automation are integrated into logistics workflows. It wasn’t treated as a separate innovation or a pilot project, it was embedded into everyday operations, from warehouse robotics to predictive supply chain systems. That mindset really stood out. For Sin Chew Woodpaq, it made me think about how we can apply AI not just to optimize routes, but to create smarter, adaptive logistics solutions that anticipate client needs and reduce risk. Taiwan showed me that automation in logistics isn’t about replacing people, it’s about empowering teams with systems that learn, adjust, and deliver certainty.
5.    One of the highlights of business missions is often the opportunity to connect with fellow participants. How did meeting peers from other Singapore manufacturing companies shape your experience, and were there any memorable conversations or insights that stayed with you after the trip?
The conversations with peers were invaluable. We weren’t just exchanging business cards, we were sharing challenges and solutions across industries. One memorable insight was how different sectors, from food & beverage to engineering, are all grappling with digital transformation. That reinforced the idea that collaboration across industries is key.
6.    Why did you choose to make this trip as part of an SMF delegation rather than going independently?
Joining the SMF delegation meant being part of a collective voice. Instead of going alone, we had the strength of representing Singapore’s manufacturing community together. That opened doors to higher level discussions and created a sense of shared purpose that wouldn’t have been possible independently.
This Business Mission shows the importance of collaboration, and the unmet potential AI has in innovating manufacturing.
