Slated to run until June 4, this year's event focuses on the Internet of Things (IoT) technology and features two new themed pavilions namely SmarTEX and InnoVEX that highlight applications and innovations in the Internet of Things.

During his opening speech, T.H. Tung from the Taipei Computer Association said that Taiwan's exports had faced a rare recession since last year amid weakening global economic performance and a stagnant international trade environment.

"Though Taiwan is not the only victim in this crisis, global ICT products and applications have gone through a paradigm shift, and what used to be the strengths and advantages of Taiwan's industries now face severe challenges," said Tung.

He said that IoT, Smart City and Smart Machine were considered the top three priorities for industry development by the new government.

"The versatility of IoT technology makes it a very promising industry to pursue for Taiwanese businesses, which are often equipped with technical know-how but limited resources," said Tung, adding that although IoT market opportunities were not yet booming, initial investment was indispensable. 

"Otherwise, those who don't take risks will be left behind in the information jet stream."

Computex 2016 showcases over 1,600 exhibitors from 30 countries and more than 5,000 booths. Last year, the event welcomed ‎over 130,000 visitors; more than 39,000 of them from 162 overseas.

The new InnoVEX pavilion ‎features 208 startups from 20 countries including: BLOCKS Wearables from the UK that is said to be the world's first modular smartwatch; Australia-based health and safety system CareMonkey; Connecterra from the Netherlands that has developed a sensor widely known as a "Fitbit for Cows"; and Bulgaria-based Dronamics ‎that boasts the world's most fuel-efficient unmanned cargo airplane product named "The Black Swan".

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