On May 31, 2026, a delegation from the U.S. state of Arizona visited Taiwan, specifically the Startup Terrace Kaohsiung, to engage with local officials and promote collaboration in the fields of startups and technology. The delegation was led by Sandra Watson, the president and CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority, and included representatives from the governments of Tucson, the University of Arizona, and local chambers of commerce. This visit was organized by the Ministry of Economic Affairs’ Small and Medium Enterprise and Startup Administration, highlighting the importance of international cooperation in fostering innovation and economic growth. The discussions during the visit focused on enhancing the capabilities of startups and small- and medium-sized enterprises in southern Taiwan, aiming to facilitate their entry into the U.S. market. G. J. Lee, the Director General of the administration, emphasized the significance of this exchange in deepening ties between Arizona and Taiwan's innovation ecosystem. The Startup Terrace Kaohsiung was identified as a crucial venue for advancing various technologies, including fifth-generation technology, Artificial Intelligence of Things, smart manufacturing, biotechnology, and energy and transportation technologies. Watson noted that Arizona is transitioning from being primarily a semiconductor hub to becoming a center for AI infrastructure. This shift is expected to further strengthen the economic ties between Arizona and Taiwan, as both regions seek to collaborate on AI infrastructure and related technologies. The delegation's visit is part of a broader strategy to enhance cooperation in technology and innovation, which has already been beneficial for both parties in the past. In addition to the meetings in Kaohsiung, the delegation planned to attend the 2026 COMPUTEX InnoVEX event in Taipei City from June 2-5, where they would engage in business matching activities. This event is significant for startups and tech companies looking to expand their networks and explore new market opportunities. The Ministry of Economic Affairs expressed its commitment to supporting Taiwanese startups in connecting with global markets and facilitating the establishment of U.S. startup branches in southern Taiwan, further solidifying the partnership between the two regions.