The Taiwan International Machine Tool Show (TMTS 2026) officially opened on March 25 at the Taichung International Convention and Exhibition Center, bringing together global buyers, industry leaders, and international representatives.

The event underscored Taichung’s position as one of the key hubs in the global machine tool industry, while highlighting Taiwan’s growing role in global manufacturing supply chains at a time of significant restructuring.

Taichung: A Key Hub for the Machine Tool Industry

Taichung is widely recognized as the heart of Taiwan’s machine tool industry, supported by a highly integrated industrial ecosystem and strong international competitiveness. The city’s manufacturers produce a broad range of equipment, including cutting and forming machine tools, CNC lathes, turning-milling machines, and advanced five-axis machining systems.

The industry generates an annual output value of approximately NT$120 billion, based on industry statistics. Its top export markets include China, the United States, and India. Employing more than 36,000 people, the sector remains a core pillar of Taiwan’s manufacturing economy and a reliable supplier to global markets.

Show Returns to Taichung, Attracting Global Buyers

The exhibition brought together 400 companies across 1,800 booths, making it one of the first major international trade events held at the venue since its opening.

Returning to Taichung after eight years, the show attracted strong participation from international buyers and created substantial business opportunities. Approximately 70,000 domestic and overseas buyers attended for sourcing and strategic engagement.

Strong Support from the Taichung City Government

The Taichung City Government supported the event through coordinated cross-departmental efforts and facilitation measures, including traffic management, tourism integration, accommodation services, shuttle operations, and international marketing, ensuring a seamless experience for exhibitors and visitors.

U.S., Swiss, and German Representatives Signal Strong International Interest

Among the distinguished attendees were representatives from key foreign institutions in Taiwan, including American Institute in Taiwan Director Raymond F. Greene, Director Claudia Fontana Tobiassen of the Trade Office of Swiss Industries, and General Manager Linda Blechert of the German Trade Office Taipei (AHK Taiwan).

Their presence underscored growing international confidence in Taiwan’s machine tool sector and Taichung’s industrial capabilities.

Speaking at the event, Director Greene stated that U.S.-Taiwan economic relations have entered a “new golden era.” He cited recent developments, including the conclusion of the Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART), and noted that Taiwan is now the fourth-largest trading partner of the United States in goods trade.

He also highlighted five key areas where Taiwan’s machine tool industry can play a critical role: advanced manufacturing and automation, AI-driven robotics, drones and unmanned systems, defense industries, and critical minerals.

Germany Leads the Largest National Pavilion

Germany presented the largest national pavilion at TMTS 2026, with 18 participating companies.

Known for its expertise in high-precision machinery and industrial equipment, Germany sees Taiwan as a key partner due to its highly integrated and globally competitive manufacturing ecosystem. The exhibition provided an important platform for strengthening bilateral cooperation and exploring new opportunities in international markets.

Taichung as a Platform for Global Industry Dialogue

As central Taiwan’s premier international exhibition venue, the Taichung International Convention and Exhibition Center hosted one of its first major global trade shows following its opening.

The event not only attracted international visitors but also enabled direct engagement between global buyers and Taichung’s industrial clusters, facilitating deeper collaboration and tangible business outcomes.

City officials noted that the center serves not only as a venue but also as a platform for global industry dialogue. By continuing to host international exhibitions and business events, Taichung aims to further strengthen its role in the global manufacturing landscape and reinforce its position as a key gateway connecting Taiwan with the world.