Taoyuan Aerotropolis Center launches tender for development project after years of planning

After years of planning and several setbacks, Taoyuan Aerotropolis Company has finally launched a tender for the development of the Asia Silicon Valley Innovation and Research Center and its surrounding land.

The project, initially conceived during the tenure of former Mayor Cheng Wen-tsan, experienced difficulties. An earlier collaboration with Chunghwa Telecom's subsidiary collapsed due to disagreements over shareholding ratios. The city government then opted for self-development, but current Mayor Chang San-cheng halted the plan in September 2023, citing concerns over a budget ballooning from NT$5 billion to NT$7.5 billion, which he deemed a "money pit."

This termination drew criticism from opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) councilors, who accused the city government of inaction. Now, with Mayor Chang's term nearing its end, the tender has been released, signaling a renewed push for the development.

The Asia Silicon Valley Innovation and Research Center is envisioned as a hub for industries such as artificial intelligence, digital technology, smart systems, health technology, and green technology. The development plan integrates industrial land with residential land, requiring the industrial zone to have at least 60% of its space dedicated to industry and innovation. Additionally, a five-star hotel with no fewer than 200 rooms and a total floor area exceeding 8,000 ping is to be developed on the residential site, serving as a配套 for the industrial workforce.

The tender is open to individual companies or consortia of two to five legal entities. Applicants must meet financial and development experience thresholds. The location, near Airport MRT Station A19, Taoyuan Convention and Exhibition Center, and other amenities, is considered highly advantageous. The submission deadline for bids is January 25th of next year, with the evaluation and contract signing expected in February and March, respectively.