Taiwan Eyes Agentic AI for Government Use
Agentic AI is the latest buzzword in tech, with open-source AI agents like OpenClaw designed to autonomously carry out work tasks. Taiwanese officials say the technology could eventually be integrated into government systems. But they stress the importance of developing sovereign AI amid security concerns.
REPORTER:
Lobsters, not just a sea creature, this is also what popular open-source AI agent OpenClaw has adopted as its mascot. The nickname gained popularity in China, leading to a trend known as "raising lobsters," which refers to training these autonomous AI agents to perform work tasks.
Agentic AI is the big buzz word in tech these days, including at Nvidia’s GTC conference this year, where CEO Jensen Huang said tools like OpenClaw are ushering in a new era.
Jensen Huang (NVIDIA CEO):
OpenClaw has open-sourced essentially the operating system of agentic computers. It is no different than how Windows made it possible for us to create personal computers. Now, OpenClaw has made it possible for us to create personal agents.
REPORTER:
Supporters say it could transform workplace operations. Some Taiwanese companies are already testing the technology.
One business leader says she’s invested around $1,000 US dollars so far in using OpenClaw, and has already seen big gains in efficiency.
Chi-Chieh Huang (CEO, AILOGORA):
It can directly monitor a lot of information about my product. If there are any loopholes or it suggests areas for improvement. OpenClaw will provide me with a lot of information to help me make decisions.
REPORTER:
This is not only something businesses are considering. Officials say agentic AI could soon be integrated into government systems. But they warn the technology also brings security issues.
Lin Yi-jing (DIGITAL MINISTER):
In the long run, this will definitely be integrated into the civil service system because this kind of agentic AI will greatly improve the efficiency of our civil servants. However, in the short term because this technology is so new there will be many cybersecurity risks.
REPORTER:
Lin says the US, China and the EU all hold different views about AI development. And some global tech companies including Microsoft and Google have already imposed limits on agentic AI use.
As both governments and corporations start to weigh in, the digital ministry says it’s crucial that Taiwan builds its own computing power to maintain control over data and systems.
Lin Yi-jing (DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MINISTER):
I think that at least the AI models used by the government must be based in Taiwan. This is another very important meaning of sovereign AI.
REPORTER:
Taiwan is now trying to strike a balance. The goal: embrace innovation, while keeping control over data, systems, and national security.
