Foxconn Technology Group Chairman Young Liu called for closer collaboration between Taiwan and Japan in electric vehicle development, saying the two sides can combine their strengths to gain an edge in the global EV race.
Speaking at the Nikkei Forum in Tokyo, Liu outlined Foxconn's diversification strategy, its evolving role in the EV supply chain, and the growing influence of artificial intelligence in corporate management. He said Foxconn aims to remain a design and manufacturing service provider rather than a branded automaker, positioning itself as a partner to both global carmakers and emerging EV startups.
Shifting production from China
Liu noted that geopolitical shifts and the rise of regional production prompted Foxconn to diversify early. He explained that several years ago, they observed a divergence where developing economies were expanding rapidly while underdeveloped ones contracted. This trend, he noted, has spurred nations to prioritize their own domestic prosperity, turning regional production into a mainstream strategy.
Foxconn has since expanded manufacturing to India, Vietnam, and Mexico. That move reduced China's share of its total output from nearly 100 percent three decades ago to about 65 percent today.
He added that labor availability and government policy remain the top factors in Foxconn's site-selection process, alongside consultations with key clients.
AI transforming operations
Liu also discussed how AI is transforming corporate operations. Foxconn now categorizes AI into two areas: generative AI used in daily functions like meeting transcription, translation, and data collection, and disruptive AI capable of fundamentally reshaping business models.
On EV collaboration, Liu praised the synergy between Taiwan's agile ICT sector and Japan's automotive precision. He said the combination could deliver both speed and quality in next-generation EV production.
Commenting on Sharp's new concept vehicle unveiled at the 2025 Japan Mobility Show, he said Foxconn will deepen partnerships with Japanese automakers to strengthen both countries' competitiveness in the global EV market.
Article edited by Jerry Chen
