COMPUTEX 2024: An Interview with James C.F. Huang

By Rabab Zehra, Executive Editor at TECHx

The bustling city of Taipei, Taiwan, recently hosted COMPUTEX 2024, a premier event in the global tech industry, featuring over 1,500 brands and startups showcasing their latest innovations. This year’s COMPUTEX promised to be a transformative experience for tech enthusiasts worldwide. I had the privilege to sit down with Mr. James C.F. Huang, Chairman of Taitra and the driving force behind COMPUTEX, to delve deeper into what makes this year’s event stand out.

Rabab: Could you please tell us how COMPUTEX 2024 is different from previous years?

James: Well, this year marks a significant leap in terms of technology and the scale of the show. We’ve attracted more than 12,000 international CEOs and professionals, along with 35,000 local attendees and over 1,000 international reporters. It’s truly remarkable. We have 1,500 tech companies from across the globe showcasing their latest products, solutions, technologies, and expertise. What’s particularly exceptional is the unprecedented gathering of major tech CEOs delivering keynotes. It’s a testament to COMPUTEX’s growing influence and importance in the tech world.

Rabab: Indeed, witnessing most of the tech CEOs at the keynotes was remarkable. James, could you give us an overview of the Taiwan market, especially in semiconductors?

James: Taiwan has long been pivotal in the tech industry, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence. COMPUTEX, since its inception in 1981, has been synonymous with computing power. Taiwan boasts the most comprehensive and competitive ICT and semiconductor supply chain globally. This ecosystem supports major technological breakthroughs, making Taiwan indispensable in the era of AI. The presence of CEOs here underscores the significance of Taiwan in launching cutting-edge products and collaborating with local partners.

Rabab: As COMPUTEX evolves each year, what are your thoughts on expanding it to other regions?

James: The idea of expanding COMPUTEX to other regions is intriguing. Over the past 43 years, COMPUTEX has been a platform for global tech engagement. This year’s success has sparked interest from various parts of the world. We’ve received invitations to host COMPUTEX in regions like the Middle East and Europe. Personally, I see great potential in the Middle East, particularly Dubai, where technology and lifestyle are flourishing. We already have a presence there, and Dubai could indeed be a strong candidate for hosting a COMPUTEX event in the future.

Rabab: That’s exciting to hear. Thank you so much for your insights, Mr. James. It was a pleasure speaking with you.

In conclusion, COMPUTEX 2024 not only showcases the latest advancements in technology but also highlights Taiwan’s pivotal role in shaping the future of the tech industry. With discussions on potential expansions into new regions, the future of COMPUTEX looks even more promising as a global tech powerhouse.