Erudite Asia

World's first 'Synthetic Biology Act' to integrate AI, big data, and biotechnology The Ministry of Science and ICT has announced the passage of the world's first 'Synthetic Biology Promotion Act,' proposed by Rep. Choi Soo-jin. This act establishes a legal framework for integrating advanced digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) and big data, with biotechnology. Synthetic biology involves designing, manufacturing, and synthesizing DNA and cells, and the government's new legislation requires the establishment of a national synthetic biology promotion system. Under the new act, the Minister of Science and ICT will create a basic plan for promoting synthetic biology every five years and designate research and development base institutions to foster collaboration among industry, academia, and research institutes. The government will also develop infrastructure, including biofoundries, essential for synthetic biology research and allow for the implementation of measures regarding the utilization of synthetic biology research data, standardization, and training of specialized personnel. The act includes obligations for responsible management, such as developing research guidelines, operating safety management systems, and enhancing social understanding of synthetic biology. The Synthetic Biology Promotion Act will come into effect in 2026, following a one-year grace period for further deliberation and implementation by the State Council. Minister Yoo Sang-im emphasized the act as a groundbreaking milestone that sets a national strategy for synthetic biology, a field he describes as having unlimited potential. #AI #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/guQ7jhcZ

Chinese companies place $16 billion in orders for Nvidia AI chips in January-March: report Chinese companies have placed orders totaling $16 billion for Nvidia's H20 artificial intelligence (AI) semiconductors during January to March 2025. This information was reported by The Information, which cited two sources. Notable companies making these orders include ByteDance, Alibaba Group, and Tencent Holdings. The rising demand for the H20 chips is attributed to the increasing adoption of low-cost AI models created by the Chinese startup Deepseek. The H20 is one of the few semiconductors that Nvidia is allowed to sell in China under current U.S. export restrictions, which have been in place since 2022 due to concerns that advanced technology could bolster China's military capabilities. In February 2025, U.S. President Trump announced plans to impose tariffs of approximately 25% on semiconductor imports and related products. Meanwhile, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang indicated that while short-term impacts may be minimal, there are intentions to relocate production to the U.S. in the long run. #AI #Japan https://lnkd.in/g4PN5AJ7

[Interview] “We will select the AI model optimized for finance”… ‘Ambition project’ developed by LG CNS AI Center LG CNS has developed a 'Financial Customized AI Evaluation Tool' aimed at assisting financial companies in selecting suitable generative AI models. The growing interest in generative AI among these companies faces challenges, particularly in choosing the right AI model from numerous large-scale language models (LLMs) while navigating regulatory and security environments. This evaluation tool analyzes various open LLMs using a financial-specific dataset to identify models most relevant for services such as banking, insurance, and securities. The AI evaluation tool is unique as it is specialized for the financial sector, contrasting with general benchmark platforms that fail to provide tailored performance indicators. LG CNS's comprehensive testing framework evaluates AI models based on 29 indicators and approximately 1,200 datasets that address specific financial reasoning challenges. Team leader Hwang Yoon-goo noted that the use of general leaderboards can result in misleading evaluations due to their one-size-fits-all approach, lacking nuance in the financial context. The development of this tool has involved extensive efforts to secure and refine a dataset that encapsulates the complexities of financial knowledge. LG CNS leveraged experience from prior IT projects in finance and collaborated with financial sector experts to enhance the dataset's relevance. The evaluation measures the consistency and accuracy of AIs in interpreting financial terms, including their ability to understand context and filter unrelated information. LG CNS recognizes that continuous updates to the evaluation tool are essential due to evolving technology and customer needs. The company aims to offer value throughout the generative AI integration process for financial firms, from model selection to customization and operational stability. There are plans to expand this evaluation methodology to other sectors like public services and manufacturing, addressing unique industry requirements. #AI #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/g3JgQFkx

Kaohsiung semiconductor S corridor takes shape, Kaohsiung City Government approves TSMC P4 and P5 plant change proposal The Kaohsiung City Council has approved a proposal for urban planning changes regarding the TSMC P4 and P5 semiconductor plants, aiming to enhance the semiconductor S-corridor in southern Kaohsiung. This initiative is expected to generate significant economic benefits and employment opportunities for the region. Enhancements to the transportation network, such as completing the new National Highway 1 Nanzi Industrial Park ramp and widening access roads, will support better logistics and connectivity for the industrial park. Deputy Mayor Lin Chin-jung highlighted that TSMC is already constructing Phases 1-3 in the Nanzih Industrial Park. The proposed changes for P4 and P5 are crucial for adapting to global supply chain shifts and reinforcing Kaohsiung’s status as a hub for semiconductor technology. Collaborative efforts between the city and central governments aim to transform the park into a core center for circular technology, materials research, and advanced semiconductor industries. The planned area for development spans approximately 42.89 hectares and is anticipated to complete by 2017. Improvements to the infrastructure will facilitate the movement of personnel and goods, accelerating development in the surrounding areas. Additionally, the City Council reviewed a separate plan concerning the Taiwan Railway Kaohsiung Locomotive Works, which includes developing a "Kaohsiung Parent-Child Amusement Park" and adjustments to residential planning regulations to enhance flexibility. #Semiconductors #Taiwan https://lnkd.in/gcySGxfY

The United States is set to impose a 25 percent reciprocal tariff on various South Korean imports starting next week. However, key sectors including automobiles, semiconductors, and steel products have been exempted from this measure. Despite this exemption, these sectors may soon face additional sector-specific tariffs as part of U.S. President Donald Trump’s "America First" trade policy. In 2024, South Korea’s exports to the U.S. reached a record $127.8 billion, with automobiles, semiconductors, and steel making up approximately 36 percent of this total. Automobile exports totaled $34.7 billion, representing 27.2 percent of South Korea's exports to the U.S., while semiconductors and memory chips accounted for $8.2 billion. Steel exports were valued at $2.9 billion. South Korea ranked as the fourth-largest steel exporter to the U.S. in 2024, supplying 9 percent of America's total steel imports. While the current exemptions reduce the risk of immediate damage to these major export categories, the existing or anticipated sector-specific tariffs could still hinder export growth significantly. The newly imposed reciprocal tariffs will cover a range of other industrial and consumer goods, including batteries and petroleum products, which reported U.S.-bound exports of $3.9 billion and $5.1 billion, respectively. In response to the impending tariffs, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy is scheduled to meet with industry representatives to evaluate the situation and discuss potential countermeasures. #Semiconductors #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/gGhctJ-d

The Netherlands is seeking to finalize an agreement with India focused on cooperation in semiconductors and critical technologies, according to Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp. This initiative aims to enhance trade and research between the two nations as they work to establish a strategic partnership amid global unrest. During his recent visit to India, Veldkamp met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval to discuss strengthening bilateral relations in trade, technology, and security. Veldkamp mentioned ongoing cooperation in the semiconductor sector and indicated intentions to sign a memorandum of understanding later this year, which would include aspects such as workforce mobility and research and development. He highlighted India's ambition to become a semiconductor hub and expressed confidence in partnering with India, viewing the country as a secure environment for collaboration in this industry. The Netherlands holds a significant position in the global semiconductor market, ranking fourth with a 9% share. Amid shifting geopolitical dynamics, Veldkamp emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with India, recognizing its pivotal role in the Indo-Pacific region for upholding freedom of navigation and international law. He noted shared security interests and stated that both sides are interested in enhancing their strategic partnership. Veldkamp also addressed the implications of US reciprocal tariffs, affirming the need for EU member states to engage with India on such issues and asserting that tariffs negatively impact trade and overall prosperity. Regarding arms sales to Pakistan, Veldkamp clarified that the Dutch government approves a higher percentage of export licenses for India compared to Pakistan. This aligns with concerns expressed by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh regarding cross-border terrorism and calls for ensuring that Dutch firms do not supply military technology to Pakistan. #Semiconductors #India https://lnkd.in/gdMNWFDC

The three mobile carriers are expected to exceed KRW 1.5 trillion in operating profit in the first quarter... Focusing on AI revenue generation SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus are predicted to exceed 1.5 trillion won in operating profit in the first quarter of 2025. These telecommunications companies are moving past one-time expenses from the previous year, such as personnel restructuring, and are set to focus on artificial intelligence (AI) investments and expanding their services. Evidence points to a general growth in the telecommunications industry this year, with total expected sales for the three companies at 15.2196 trillion won and operating profit at 1.5444 trillion won, reflecting increases of 3.5% in sales and 25% in operating profit compared to last year. Individual forecasts show SK Telecom anticipating 4.5082 trillion won in sales and 526 billion won in operating profit, while KT expects 7.547 trillion won in sales and 775.2 billion won in operating profit. LG Uplus is projected to achieve sales of 3.6567 trillion won and operating profit of 243.2 billion won. Analysts attribute the strong performance of these firms to cost reductions, particularly following the bipartisan abolition of the Mobile Terminal Distribution Structure Improvement Act last July, which helped lower marketing costs and enhance overall efficiency. Moreover, the completion of a joint 5G network construction last year has contributed to profit recovery in both AI initiatives and new activities such as data centers. SK Telecom is launching its Gasan AI data center, while KT has seen improvements through its KT Cloud subsidiary. LG Uplus anticipates growth from its corporate infrastructure ventures, including Ixio and the IDC business. The companies are poised to invest further in infrastructure, aiming for strong outcomes in both B2C and B2B AI sectors. Although the Fair Trade Commission's potential fine of 104 billion won poses a regulatory challenge, its impact on this year’s performance remains uncertain. Kim Hong-sik from Hana Securities indicates that the positive forecast for the first quarter will likely enhance expectations for annual profit increases in 2025. The current environment suggests minimal weak factors affecting telecom stocks, with a focus on resolving regulatory issues and sustaining cost reductions. #AI #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/g3EnNHQP

Dubai's Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced plans to launch autonomous taxis in the Emirate of Dubai, scheduled for 2026. The RTA is expanding partnerships with leading global companies in autonomous technology, including Uber Technologies, Inc. and WeRide, who will introduce autonomous vehicles on the Uber platform. Additionally, the Chinese company Baidu will contribute through its autonomous transportation arm, Apollo Go. The pilot operations for the autonomous taxis are set to begin this year with a safety driver present. This initiative is part of RTA's efforts to enhance network integration and improve public transport, representing a significant shift in Dubai's transportation landscape. His Excellency Mattar Al Tayer emphasized the safety benefits of autonomous vehicles, which are expected to reduce accidents caused by human error. The initiative aims to facilitate travel for residents, particularly senior citizens and people with disabilities. The autonomous taxi program is aligned with the RTA's strategy for the first and last mile of transport, enhancing accessibility to public transport. The partnership with Uber and its technology partners highlights their commitment to bringing innovative transportation solutions to Dubai. #AI #Pakistan https://lnkd.in/gsF4TW4s

Trump imposes a 32% reciprocal tariff on Taiwan! TSMC again, American chips seized US President Donald Trump announced a 32% reciprocal tariff on Taiwan as part of broader tariff measures against various nations on April 2, 2025. During his speech in the Rose Garden of the White House, he criticized Taiwan for undermining the American chip and semiconductor industry and emphasized the need for major companies to invest in the United States, notably mentioning TSMC's plans to build a large factory in the country. Trump declared April 2 as "Liberation Day" for the United States, reinforcing his commitment to restoring American economic dominance. He presented a chart indicating that China would face the highest tariffs at 34%, while Taiwan's tariffs were established in response to its own 64% tariff on American goods. Trump indicated that foreign companies could avoid tariffs if they established manufacturing facilities in the US, outlining his vision for reshaping international trade relations. During the announcement, Trump framed the new tariff measures as a response to long-standing economic grievances, suggesting that the US had been deceived by its trading partners. He warned that if retaliatory tariffs were imposed or if the American manufacturing sector continued to decline, the US might further increase these reciprocal tariffs. #Semiconductors #Taiwan https://lnkd.in/gcgMnmMX

The United States is set to impose a 25 percent reciprocal tariff on a wide array of South Korean imports starting next week, but crucial sectors such as automobiles, semiconductors, and steel have been exempted from this measure. Despite the exemptions, these sectors face imminent challenges due to existing or anticipated sector-specific tariffs under President Trump's "America First" trade policy. In 2024, South Korean exports to the US reached a record $127.8 billion, marking a 10.4 percent increase from the previous year. Automobiles accounted for $34.7 billion of this total (27.2 percent), while semiconductors and memory chips amounted to $8.2 billion (6.4 percent). Steel exports were valued at $2.9 billion, contributing approximately 2.3 percent to the overall exports. Notably, South Korea was the fourth-largest steel exporter to the US in 2024, supplying 9 percent of US steel imports. Collectively, these three sectors represented about 36 percent of South Korea's total exports to the US. While the exemptions from the new tariffs may provide temporary relief, industry analysts indicate that the ongoing or expected tariffs will impose significant hurdles for export growth. Other industrial and consumer goods, such as batteries and petroleum products, are among the items anticipated to be affected by the reciprocal tariffs, with 2024 export figures showing batteries at $3.9 billion and petroleum products at $5.1 billion to the US. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy planned to convene a meeting with industry representatives to evaluate the anticipated impact and devise response strategies. #Semiconductors #SouthKorea https://lnkd.in/gf9nQR_M