Advancing AI Smart Lighting and Aligning with Global Sustainability

In response to global trends in net-zero sustainability and intelligent technologies, Taiwan’s lighting industry is entering a critical phase of transformation. Lee Shih-Tsung, the newly appointed Chairman of the Taiwan Lighting Fixture Export Association (TAILU), emphasized in a recent interview that the industry is moving beyond traditional manufacturing into an era defined by smart integration and low-carbon innovation.

The association will prioritize four key pillars going forward: digital transformation, industry upgrading, global competitiveness, and resilience, guiding members toward higher value-added development and brand-driven strategies.

Lee noted that while Taiwan's lighting industry has long focused on OEM and component manufacturing, the market is quickly shifting toward integrated systems and solution-oriented services. With LED penetration surpassing 90%, the industry has reached maturity, making way for new growth drivers such as smart lighting, human-centric design, and IoT applications.

However, the sector currently faces three major challenges:

1.High product homogeneity intensifying price competition.

2.Limited system integration and IoT development capacity among SMEs.

3.Rising pressure from stricter global environmental regulations (e.g., RoHS, REACH, and carbon footprint mandates), increasing export complexity and costs.

Five Strategic Pillars to Drive Industry Upgrading
To overcome these challenges, the Association has laid out five strategic action areas:

1.Strengthening two-way communication with members and the government to advocate for more technical and financial support.

2.Accelerating adoption of AI and IoT technologies, enabling wider implementation of smart lighting.

3.Fostering talent and innovation through academic-industry collaboration and design competitions.

4.Expanding cross-sector cooperation with architecture and interior design industries to move from product to space-based lighting solutions.

5.Establishing professional training and certification systems to enhance the industry’s international credibility and image.

Navigating Global Trade Shifts with Flexibility and Innovation
With ongoing tariff uncertainties in the U.S. market, Lee stressed the importance of Taiwan’s “non-China origin” advantage. By clearly labeling “Made in Taiwan” and strengthening brand trust, Taiwanese companies are well-positioned to secure U.S. government and premium commercial procurement opportunities.

He also urged manufacturers to adopt flexible production strategies, leveraging both local and Southeast Asian facilities to build a more resilient and transparent supply chain.

To counter price erosion in export markets, Lee advocates focusing on R&D and product differentiation—developing lighting solutions featuring smart control, human-centric lighting, and energy efficiency. Furthermore, enhancing brand visibility through international exhibitions, B2B e-commerce platforms, and digital outreach will be critical in reducing dependence on OEM business models.

Redefining the Role of the Association
Looking ahead, Chairman Lee envisions the Association transforming from a support organization into a strategic integrator and global promoter of innovation.

"Lighting is no longer just about illumination—it’s about integrating people, space, and technology," Lee said. "With Taiwan’s strength in technology, design, and flexibility, we are confident in leading our industry to shine on the global stage."