Cisco, a US-based networking technology company, is planning to establish a cybersecurity centre in Taiwan, reports Reuters.
This initiative is part of the company’s broader Taiwan Digital Acceleration Plan 3.0.
Go deeper with GlobalData
The company also plans to partner with the Taiwanese government for talent development to address the global shortage in cybersecurity expertise.
The decision comes amidst Taiwan’s increasing concerns over cyberattacks, which the island’s government attributes to sources from China, a claim that China denies.
“In addition, Cisco aims to collaborate with relevant tech associations to establish a security centre in Taiwan for enhanced threat intelligence and cyber readiness,” stated Cisco.
Speaking to reporters, Cisco global innovation officer Guy Diedrich said the company will “be doing a great deal of work around security,” including the upcoming “security innovation centre” in Taiwan.
Although investment figures were not disclosed, Diedrich highlighted the open-ended nature of the digital acceleration programme, indicating that Cisco is prepared to make significant investments in the region.
“The nice thing about the digital acceleration programme is that there is no ceiling on investments. We continue to make them,” he said.
The plan also encompasses artificial intelligence (AI) applications in transportation and sustainability, with initiatives at Kaohsiung port in southern Taiwan.
Earlier in June 2024, Cisco Investments announced a new $1bn fund to invest in AI startups.
The fund has already begun investing in AI-focused companies such as Mistral AI, Cohere, and Scale AI, reflecting Cisco’s strategy to enhance AI capabilities for its customers.
