Under US-China Pressure, France Expands Investment in Quantum and Semiconductors by NT$57 Billion

According to the Central News Agency (CNA), French President Emmanuel Macron announced on the 22nd an additional investment of €1.55 billion (approx. NT$56.6 billion) in quantum computing and semiconductors, citing the accelerated development of key technologies by the US and China. Macron expressed hope that European nations would work together to develop these two strategic sectors. During a visit to the CEA's supercomputing center near Paris, Macron unveiled the new support package, which allocates €1 billion for quantum technology and €550 million for semiconductors under the 'France 2030' plan. Macron emphasized that the next 18 to 24 months are critical for R&D and industry to establish a foothold in the market. The funds will be used to enhance computing power and support applications like sensors and quantum communications. The €550 million for semiconductors will support a European project aimed at industrializing chips for data centers and AI. Macron also stressed the importance of European cooperation and the implementation of 'European preference' in public procurement.