The Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP) recently concluded its second business mission to Asia, with the aim of enhancing Central Florida’s role in the global semiconductor supply chain and building stronger international connections. The delegation traveled from September 5 to 13 and included Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings, former Congresswoman Val Demings, representatives from SelectFlorida/Florida Department of Commerce, the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), the University of Central Florida (UCF), and other partners.
During the visit, the group worked to showcase Orlando’s strengths in government, academia, aviation, and economic development. “The Orlando region’s future depends on global partnerships that drive economic diversification and prosperity,” said Mayor Demings.
Destin Wells, senior vice president of economic development at OEP, emphasized the importance of semiconductors: “Semiconductors power everything from advanced defense systems to smartphones in our pockets, and Orlando is positioning itself at the center of this global industry.”
At SEMICON Taiwan—a leading trade event for semiconductors held in Taipei—the delegation generated 15 business leads. They also hosted a dinner with nearly 30 companies and met with officials from organizations such as the American Institute in Taiwan and various Taiwanese ministries. One-on-one meetings were held with over two dozen companies to discuss potential collaborations.
Aviation was a key topic during these discussions. GOAA participated in conversations about expanding international air service, which could support tourism growth as well as increased trade and investment opportunities linked to high-tech industries like those developing at NeoCity technology district.
Higher education partnerships were also advanced through joint sessions between UCF and institutions such as National Taiwan University and the Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI). These sessions focused on research collaboration and workforce development initiatives.
The delegation visited the Import and Export Association of Taiwan (IEAT) to build on last year’s Memorandum of Understanding. Discussions focused on deepening economic ties between Taiwan and Central Florida. Remarks were delivered by Mr. Peter Huang, Secretary General of IEAT; Destin Wells; Dr. Matt Swanson of FloridaCommerce/SelectFlorida; and Mayor Jerry L. Demings.
To further expand Orlando’s reach into Asian markets, OEP engaged a consultant based in Taiwan—Wennie Chen—to serve as a liaison connecting Asian companies with opportunities in Central Florida across sectors including aerospace, defense, semiconductors, telecommunications, and life sciences.
These activities are part of OEP’s strategy to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), support global trade efforts, and diversify Central Florida’s economy. The region has established one of the nation’s major semiconductor initiatives at NeoCity in Osceola County—a hub supported by more than $1 billion in public and private investment anchored by the federally designated Florida Semiconductor Engine tech hub.
Both this Asia mission trip and the establishment of an ongoing liaison presence are elements within “Orlando 2045,” a long-term vision aiming for Orlando to become a top national place to live as well as a top-10 global innovation hub known for its resilient economy connected internationally.
“The Orlando region’s future depends on global partnerships that drive economic diversification and prosperity,” said Mayor Demings.
“Semiconductors power everything from advanced defense systems to smartphones in our pockets, and Orlando is positioning itself at the center of this global industry,” said Destin Wells.
