The 12th edition of the Smart City Summit & Expo (SCSE) 2025 is set to be the biggest event driving AI-driven smart city transformation, with 2,500 international partners, 560 exhibitors, and 2,000 booths. Expected to attract over 35,000 professionals, this marks a 40% increase in attendance, further positioning Taiwan as a global hub for smart technology, AI-powered governance, and sustainable urban ecosystems.
Smart Cities at the Heart of Global Climate Action
One of the major highlights of SCSE 2025 was the Net Zero City Leaders Summit, a pivotal platform where urban leaders, policymakers, and sustainability experts gathered to discuss the role of cities in addressing the climate crisis. ICLEI General Secretary Gino Van Begin delivered a keynote emphasizing the crucial role of local governments in driving the transition to climate neutrality. With more than 2,500 local and regional governments in over 125 countries, ICLEI has been instrumental in promoting sustainability across urban landscapes.
Van Begin stressed that while national governments create frameworks, it is cities that must implement solutions—whether through smart infrastructure, sustainable transport, or energy-efficient buildings. The summit highlighted the need for local governments to adopt innovative, practical measures that are tailored to their specific contexts, accelerating global efforts toward net-zero emissions.
Taipei: AI-Driven Innovation for a Sustainable Future
Under the leadership of Mayor Chiang Wan-an, Taipei is spearheading the “T.A.I.P.E.I.” AI strategy, transforming urban services through AI-powered solutions. Taipei’s AI Citizen Helpline (1999) and the AI-enhanced Fire Department system showcase the city’s commitment to smarter, more responsive public services. The Smart Healthcare Initiative is another significant development, integrating AI for mental health and diagnostics to improve healthcare efficiency.
“Taipei is setting the global benchmark for AI adoption and ethical AI governance,” said Mayor Chiang. With a focus on AI governance, smart mobility, and citizen services, Taipei’s efforts are not just about adopting technology but doing so in a responsible, ethical manner that prioritizes public welfare.
Kaohsiung: Pioneering AI-Driven Sustainability
Deputy Mayor Charles Lin unveiled the Kaohsiung Intelligent Lighthouse Program, a visionary project centered on sustainability, AI governance, and digital innovation. Kaohsiung is harnessing AI computing and digital twin technology to build smart urban ecosystems that support carbon neutrality and AI-powered governance.
The city’s AI Upgrade 2.0 master project focuses on advancing infrastructure and energy efficiency, while partnerships with universities and startups are fostering AI talent development. “Kaohsiung is leading with AI-driven sustainability, becoming a model for future-proof, data-driven cities globally,” said Deputy Mayor Lin.
SCSE 2025 also highlighted Taiwan’s leadership in AI talent development, with initiatives like the AI Talent Development Fund and strategic partnerships with the EU and U.S.. These collaborations aim to strengthen AI research, governance, and cybersecurity while driving global cooperation in digital transformation and sustainability.
A Call to Action for Climate-Resilient Cities
As the world grapples with climate change, the Net Zero City Leaders Summit emphasized the need for collective global action. Cities, empowered by organizations like ICLEI, play a key role in this transition, adopting policies and technologies that directly impact their communities. The summit reinforced that it’s not only up to national governments or corporations—local governments and citizens alike must embrace these solutions to create sustainable, resilient cities.
SCSE 2025 stands as a beacon for this transformation, showcasing how AI, digitalization, and intercity collaboration can drive a sustainable future.
