Cluster Development and Global Competitiveness: Prospects of the Nano Sector in Hsinchu Science Park

Abstract

The Taiwanese government has heavily invested in infrastructure to support nanotechnology related academic research and industrial applications since 2003. This study surveys nano patent counts and projections of nano industrial output have been surveyed to assess prospects of the Taiwan nano sector in revitalizing Hsinchu Science Park. Quantitative measures of competitiveness and linkages indicate that the competitiveness of certain high-tech clusters is positively linked to strong cross-cluster linkages among Hsinchu Science Park firms. Based on the empirical evidence, this study proposes that nano science and technology may provide opportunities for Hsinchu Science Park firms to strengthen existing or creating new business linkages, and advance their global competitiveness. This study also presents a case study involving the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation, a flagship Hsinchu Science Park firm.