Taipei: The French pavilion at the upcoming SEMICON Taiwan will be the largest ever, French Representative to Taiwan Franck Paris said Friday, signaling France's continued efforts to strengthen its engagement with Taiwan's semiconductor industry.

According to Focus Taiwan, the "Choose France" pavilion at SEMICON will feature at least 15 French companies from the semiconductor and advanced technology sectors. Among these are Veolia Group, known for its water and waste management solutions, and Quobly, which specializes in quantum processors.

In addition to the pavilion, several delegations totaling around 60 people are expected to travel to Taiwan for the semiconductor trade fair in Taipei, scheduled for September 10-12. This level of participation underscores France's intention to build a strategic partnership with Taiwan in semiconductors through science, research, and industrial cooperation.

Franck Paris highlighted that Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., globally recognized as Foxconn, announced in May an investment of approximately US$292 million to construct an advanced packaging facility in France. He anticipates that more deals and partnerships will be forged between France and Taiwan at SEMICON.

Paris also emphasized France's role as a gateway for Taiwanese companies to the European Union and African markets, referencing France's historical geopolitical influence in Africa. As the director of the French Office in Taipei, Paris represents France's interests in Taiwan, given the absence of formal diplomatic relations.

According to SEMICON organizers, this year's trade show will feature more than 1,200 semiconductor and technology companies. Additionally, there will be dozens of industry forums with officials, corporate leaders, and experts from Taiwan and abroad.