SMRT Corporation (SMRT) has officially joined the Taiwan Metro Alliance, becoming the first international rail operator outside of Taiwan to be part of the alliance. The landmark agreement was signed during SMRT’s delegation visit to Taipei, joining five Taiwanese rail operators – New Taipei Metro Corporation, Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation, Taoyuan Metro Corporation, Taichung Mass Rapid Transit Corporation, and Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation.

The six-party agreement, signed by SMRT Chairman Mr Seah Moon Ming and the chairpersons of the Taiwanese metro operators, outlines four key collaboration areas:

  1. Co-cultivating a stronger talent pipeline through exchange programmes
  2. Sharing technical expertise to enhance operations and maintenance
  3. Coordinating joint procurement and spare parts development to reduce costs
  4. Exploring commercial opportunities in advertising, marketing, and transit retail

Mr Ngien Hoon Ping, Group Chief Executive Officer of SMRT, expressed honor at being invited to join the alliance, emphasizing the long-standing partnerships with the Taiwanese metro companies and their shared goal of providing safe, reliable, and sustainable public transportation.

Mr Hou Yu-Ih, Mayor of New Taipei City, highlighted SMRT’s global recognition as an experienced rail operator since 1987, expressing confidence in mutual learning opportunities.

Mr Lin Yu-Hsien, Convener of the Metro Alliance and Chairman of New Taipei Metro Corporation, noted the significance of establishing a cross-border connection and strengthening partnerships to chart new frontiers together.

In addition to joining the Metro Alliance, SMRT Trains established sister metro relationships with New Taipei Metro Corporation and Taoyuan Metro Corporation. These agreements extend beyond the alliance’s scope, exploring areas such as cross-city communications, tourism development, ESG strategies, data analytics for smart operations, and innovative approaches to service excellence.

This collaboration marks a significant step in international rail cooperation, promising to enhance urban rail systems and set new standards for rail excellence across borders.