LCY Group’s Bowei Lee calls for stronger collaboration to aid with re-industrialization at the Toronto Global Forum
October 20, 2025
by CM Staff
Lee underscored that re-industrialization requires joint action.
LCY Group Chairman Bowei Lee speaks at the 2025 Toronto Global Forum
TORONTO — LCY Group published a press release, stating that globalization is “entering a different phase defined by strategic re-industrialization, weaponization of comparative advantages, and a reliable supply chain.” At the Toronto Global Forum, Bowei Lee, Chairman of LCY Group (LCY) called for stronger collaboration to accommodate the reportedly shifting geopolitical and economic dynamics.
In a fireside chat with Pierre Pettigrew, P.C., Chair of the Board at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada and former Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs, and following opening remarks by George Spezza, Director of Niagara Economic Development, Lee emphasized that in the ‘new’ globalization — technology, talent development at various levels, and government policies are critical.
Lee noted that the old globalization, which was based on the economic theory of comparative advantages, and international collaborations under a free market, is no longer applicable. Instead of relying on other countries in the supply chain, many countries want to have their own domestic supply chain for certain strategic industries, including semiconductors, rare earth minerals, and biotech.
“AI is one of the pillars leading this re-industrialization in North America,” says Lee. “Advanced chips enable AI, and high-quality materials and strong supply chains enable those chips. LCY builds a deep moat in technology, R&D, and economies of scale to advance industrial resilience across Asia and North America.” He added that re-industrialization also depended on workforce development, calling for policies that rebuild vocational and engineering skills essential to manufacturing.
In semiconductors, LCY supplies electronic-grade isopropyl alcohol (E-IPA), a critical bulk wet chemical, and other formulated cleaning chemicals for advanced chip production. The company is among only two suppliers worldwide qualified for sub-2-nanometer chips.
Lee underscored that re-industrialization requires joint action. According to LCY Group, policymakers could enhance infrastructure building, from physical to policy, to create a regulatory environment that encourages these kinds of investments. He pointed to Taiwan’s cluster-based science park model, where manufacturers, suppliers, and technology providers collaborate in a close-knit ecosystem.
