On Monday, September 11th, a Lithuanian laser laboratory was inaugurated in Taiwan, marking a significant milestone in the advancement of laser technology and the emergence of new technologies.
“The establishment of the Lithuanian Laser Laboratory in Taiwan represents another crucial step in strengthening the collaboration between Lithuania and Taiwan. Lithuania has already gained global recognition in the field of lasers, with 90% of its laser products exported to more than 100 countries. I have no doubt that this research center, harnessing the scientific and technological potential of both Lithuania and Taiwan, will provide a substantial technological boost and enable cutting-edge solutions in the rapidly growing laser sector,“ said Aušrinė Armonaitė, Minister of Economy and Innovation.
The laboratory’s launch was made possible through the support of 14 Lithuanian companies in the laser and photonics sectors, which invested €1.5 million in laboratory equipment. Taiwan has also invested €1.5 million to construct state-of-the-art facilities for laser professionals.
“Lithuania is renowned for its expertise in lasers, with extensive knowledge of how laser light interacts with different materials and its potential applications in shaping, modifying, or structuring materials. I have no doubt that Taiwan, with its robust semiconductor and electronics mass production industry, is the ideal partner to leverage its competence and capabilities in precision laser material processing and expand its global presence,” said Gediminas Račiukaitis, President of the Lithuanian Laser Association.
The Lithuanian Laser Laboratory in Taiwan will also serve as a platform for fundamental research in the field of lasers, with funding provided by the Lithuanian Science Council and Taiwanese representatives.
Over the past decade, the production of electronic and optical products in Lithuania has grown at an average annual rate of 15%. Lithuanian products are exported to major EU countries, as well as to laboratories and research centers in the USA and Japan.
Earlier this year, the Lithuanian Laser Association and the Taiwan Industrial Technology Research Institute (ITRI) signed a letter of intent to establish a joint Laser Technology Research Centre in Taiwan.
