A Groundbreaking Alliance between ITRI and Sonora State to Propel Science and Innovation
On February 23, 2024, an unprecedented alliance was solidified with the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) of Taiwan entering into a pivotal consulting service agreement with the state of Sonora, Mexico. This partnership signifies a monumental step forward in the collaborative efforts between Mexico and Taiwan within the realms of technology and industrial growth. Specifically aiming at the conceptualization, planning, and development of a Science Park in Sonora, this initiative promises to bolster the region’s competitive edge and sustainability in science and technology innovation.
Core Objectives and Mutual Benefits
Blueprint and Strategic Development
The collaboration entails a comprehensive suite of services including the analysis of regional cooperative competition, strategic consultation, business development, capability fostering, and continuous implementation support. The primary goal is to establish a Science Park that stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. Likewise, this project opens new avenues for Taiwanese manufacturers contemplating expansion into the vibrant Mexican market, further solidifying the bilateral ties in technology and industrial sectors.
Empowering the Electric Vehicle and High-Tech Industries
Highlighting the strategic import of Mexico in the global supply chains, especially in the emerging electric vehicle sector, ITRI’s Senior Vice President, Stephen Su, underscored Mexico’s unique advantages. These include its strategic geographical positioning, competitive production and labor costs, extensive automotive manufacturing ecosystems, abundant mineral resources, and the benefits accorded under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). Positioned as Taiwan’s paramount export destination and trade partner in Latin America, this partnership is set to deepen sectoral exchanges in semiconductors, electric vehicles, artificial intelligence, and automation, offering Taiwanese firms a supportive platform for market expansion in Mexico.
Strategic Alignment and Visionary Goals
Strengthening Cross-Border Industrial Synergies
The Governor of Sonora, Francisco Alfonso Durazo Montaño, welcomed the partnership with ITRI, acknowledging the institute’s significant contributions to Taiwan’s semiconductor and information and communications technology (ICT) sectors. Aligning with Sonora’s sustainable development strategy, “Plan Sonora,” the state aims to capitalize on the trend of international companies relocating supply chains to Mexico. The Sonora Science and Technology Park project emerges in response to this, focusing on fulfilling the burgeoning needs of the ICT and electric vehicle industries.
Leveraging Collaborative Expertise for Global Expansion
Emphasizing the mutual benefits of this collaboration, both ITRI and Sonora government express eagerness to combine their strengths for broader international market exploration. Through this collaborative endeavor, there is a shared vision of establishing a cutting-edge environment conducive to innovation and sustainable development, which in turn, is expected to serve as a pivotal growth catalyst for both regions.
About ITRI
The Industrial Technology Research Institute, a global frontrunner in technological research and development, aspires to engineer a brighter future through innovation. Since its inception in 1973, ITRI has been instrumental in transforming Taiwan’s economy from labor-centric to innovation-focused. With its 2035 Technology Strategy and Roadmap, ITRI is committed to spearheading advancements in Smart Living, Quality Health, Sustainable Environment, and Resilient Society. ITRI’s legacy of nurturing renowned startups and its expansive international presence underscore its pivotal role in catalyzing industrial transformation and fostering global partnerships.
