In this episode of Inside Taiwan, we uncover the hidden human and cultural forces behind two of the world’s most influential industries — bicycles and semiconductors.

First, Taiwan’s Giant Manufacturing, a symbol of craftsmanship and pride, faces a stunning U.S. import detention order over allegations of forced labor. We unpack how recruitment fees and shifting global ESG standards have created new compliance risks for Taiwan’s entire export sector.

Then, we travel to the Netherlands to examine ASML, the quiet powerhouse with a monopoly on EUV lithography machines essential for TSMC’s chips. A new book, Focus: The ASML Way, reveals the company’s extraordinary culture of focus, partnership, and long-term vision — and what every company can learn from its rise to dominance.

Together, these stories expose a new truth: in today’s economy, the rules of the global supply chain are no longer written in silicon alone—they’re written in values, culture, and intent.

#AI #SupplyChain #ESG #Semiconductors #TSMC #ASML #GiantBicycles #ForcedLabor #CorporateEthics #Manufacturing #Taiwan #Technology #Innovation #Leadership #BusinessCulture #Sustainability #AITransformation #InsideTaiwan #Podcast

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