Download Report

AI-Powered Manufacturing in 2025: Trends, Taiwan Case Studies and an Actionable Roadmap

About Report

In 2025, Taiwan's manufacturing sector stands at a critical juncture, facing a "perfect storm" formed by high tariffs, supply chain restructuring, and intensifying competition from China's red supply chain. The pressure for transformation is mounting—can Taiwan evolve from being purely a contract manufacturer to a smart manufacturing service provider with sustainable, subscription-based revenue?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as the core engine of smart manufacturing, enabling predictive insights, rapid adaptation, and resilient operations. Yet, many manufacturers struggle with AI adoption. The key to success lies not in choosing the right model, but in strengthening organizational transformation and decision-making maturity.

This trend report consolidates insights shared by iKala CEO Sega Cheng. It covers a comprehensive analysis of global manufacturing shifts, the strategic value of AI in digital transformation, smart factory and supply chain application scenarios, and in-depth case studies from Taiwan.
Whether you're a CEO, CIO, transformation leader, or plant manager, this report will equip you with essential perspectives on:

Navigating industrial disruption through AI-powered transformation
Measuring the real-world impact of smart manufacturing
A practical, phased AI adoption roadmap for manufacturers
Global and local best practices for success

Summary

1. Impact of Global Forces on Taiwan's Manufacturing Sector

Three major economic pressures: Tariffs, exchange rates, and inflation
Supply chain restructuring: De-risking from China and accelerating nearshoring
Rise of the Red Supply Chain: From complementary to competitive dynamics

2. AI as a Catalyst for Competitive Reinvention in Smart Manufacturing

Four core value drivers of AI transformation in manufacturing
Key application scenarios:
- In-factory automation
- Supply chain and production planning
- Edge AI deployment

3. Case Studies: AI Transformation in Taiwan and Around the World

Taiwan's "Lighthouse Factories": Foxconn, Taihong Circuit Ind, Advantech
Global industry leaders: General Motors, General Electric, Walmart, Unilever

4. Challenges and Roadmap for Enterprise AI Adoption

Five common enterprise challenges: Organizational structure, talent, and data readiness
iKala's Three-Phase AI Implementation Checklist
Future Outlook: Transitioning from manufacturer to service provider via AI-enabled subscription models