Jaclyn TSAI

Introduction

Jaclyn Tsai is the co-founder of Lee, Tsai & Partners and a distinguished legal professional with extensive experience spanning both the public and private sectors. After earning her LLB from National Taiwan University, she began her career as a district court judge (1982-1991) before transitioning to the corporate world, where she served as general counsel for IBM Greater China until 1998.

Tsai is a leading authority in technology law, with deep expertise across multiple industries. Her practice encompasses ICT and semiconductors, fintech (including blockchain, NFTs, Defi, Gamefi, Stablecoin, CBDC, and cryptocurrencies), smart city development (covering AI, telecoms and the data economy), biotechnology, personal data protection, privacy and the Fair Trade Act. She is also well-versed in IP, digital assets, investment and M&A, as well as labour law, particularly in areas such as remote work, non-compete agreements and trade secrets.

In 2013, Tsai was appointed as a minister without portfolio in Taiwan’s executive yuan (cabinet), becoming one of the few female ministers in government. During her tenure, she played a pivotal role in modernising regulations related to the digital economy, virtual world development, e-commerce, the sharing economy, digital convergence, the startup ecosystem, open data, and the maker movement, among other inter-ministerial affairs.

Following her public service, Tsai returned to Lee, Tsai & Partners in 2016. Since 2017, she has served as a committee member of both the Taipei Smart City Committee and the Taipei International Affairs Committee. She also holds key leadership roles, including chief consultant for the Taiwan Virtual Asset Service Providers Association, chair of the Asia FinTech Alliance, and honourary chair of both the Taiwan FinTech Association (TFTA) and the Taiwan Women on Boards Association.

Recognised for her contributions to fintech law, Tsai was recently named fintech lawyer of the year (Taiwan) by Leaders in Law’s Global Awards 2024/25 and fintech law expert of the year (Taiwan) by Corporate INTL Global Awards 2025. A strong advocate for industry innovation and female leadership, she continues to shape the legal landscape, strengthen Taiwan’s fintech ecosystem, and empower the next generation of leaders.