Taiwan economic development 結果共69筆

Taipei’s Executive Yuan Spokesperson, Lin Tze-luen, announced a budget surplus for the 2023 fiscal year, attributing the achievement to the combined efforts of civil society and the government. The surplus will be allocated responsibly to maintain fiscal discipline, primarily focusing on debt reduction and infrastructure investment. Taiwan’s economy has experienced consistent growth, resulting in a budget surplus for seven consecutive years. In 2022, the surplus reached an impressive NT$500 billion, leading to a proposed special budget of NT$380 billion. This special budget aims to enhance economic and social resilience, with provisions such as a cash payment of NT$6,000 per citizen, support for labor and health insurance programs, and assistance for Taiwan Power Company. Additionally, the special budget includes programs to aid residential loan holders from the middle class and below. Lin emphasized the government’s commitment to considering public opinion and promoting national affairs to facilitate Taiwan’s sustainable development.

Taiwan’s government confirms budget surplus, prioritizes debt repayment and infrastructure investments. Cabinet spokesman Lin Tze-luen expresses gratitude for joint efforts leading to economic growth. Taiwan’s annual tax revenue exceeds target, reaching NT$367.1 billion in fiscal year 2023, marking the third-highest record. Speculation arises on possible cash rebate as government distributed NT$6,000 to citizens in 2022 surplus. Lin Tze-luen declares government will consider public opinion on surplus utilization. Surplus will be applied with fiscal discipline, focusing on debt repayment and infrastructure investments. Efforts will be made to meet national and individual needs for sustainable development.

President Tsai Ing-wen commends Taiwan’s remarkable economic growth, surpassing East Asia’s average, during a year-end celebration. She urges corporations to enhance employee benefits as her term nears its end.

Presidential candidates from the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) held simultaneous campaign rallies in New Taipei City. KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih criticized DPP candidate Lai Ching-te for allegedly belittling the Republic of China (Taiwan) and accused the DPP of corruption. Lai emphasized human rights during his visit to the Luchou Lee Family Historic Estate and promised support for renovating the residence of Lieutenant General Lee, a figure in the resistance against Japanese occupation who was falsely accused and executed during the KMT-led era. Lai highlighted his commitment to economic development and human rights protection.

President Tsai Ing-wen highlights Taiwan’s growing global relevance and indispensability, as she reflects on the substantial changes during her seven-year presidency. Taiwan’s GDP has risen from NT＄17.5 trillion to an impressive NT＄23 trillion under her administration, thanks to initiatives aimed at investment and infrastructure development. Advanced semiconductor chip production has thrived, contributing to Taiwan’s economic stability and rapid advancement, surpassing the progress of the Four Asian Tigers. Tsai attributes this success to the unity and resilience of the Taiwanese people. She hopes that her administration’s efforts will have a lasting impact, sustaining Taiwan’s forward momentum for future leaders.

Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai declares that Taiwan should not rely on China’s market, as it hampers Taiwan’s economy. He expresses regret that the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) did not establish a factory in Taoyuan and that the Asia Silicon Valley Innovation and Development Center in Taoyuan has been halted. Chen highlights that TSMC’s 2-nanometer site in Kaohsiung is already operational. He points out that Kaohsiung’s 5G internet innovation park, modeled after Taoyuan’s success, is thriving, while Taoyuan’s center has been halted. Chen emphasizes Taiwan’s dominance in the global semiconductor industry, with TSMC controlling 92 percent of advanced manufacturing processes and 62 percent of global production value, and advocates for the development of Asia Silicon Valley as the correct path.

Taiwan’s investment in China has reached its lowest point in a decade, making up just over 10% of the island’s total overseas direct investment, according to a report by Nikkei Asia. Recent official data from Taiwan reveals that foreign direct investments surged by 87% to reach $257 billion through November this year. However, investments in China plummeted by 34% to only $29 billion, representing a mere 12% of the total. Since 2010, Taiwanese investments in China have been steadily declining and are projected to drop below the lowest point recorded since 1999. In contrast, investments in the United States have increased ninefold to $96 billion, accounting for around 37% of the total outbound direct investment. Additionally, Taiwan’s direct investment in Germany has soared 25-fold to $39 billion, largely driven by the operations of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company. Sun Ming-te, Director of the Business Development and Research Center at the Taiwan Institute of Economic Research (TIER), predicts that if tensions between the United States and China persist, Taiwan’s investment in China will continue to decline.

President Tsai Ing-wen, at Zhonghe’s Haishan Palace, praised the adoption of her political approach by opposition parties and emphasized the suitability of DPP candidates Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim for implementing her policies. She highlighted Taiwan’s significant export growth and infrastructure investment, and responded to opposition criticism on spending, ahead of the Jan. 13 elections.

Taipei (TVBS News) - Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai has announced that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) is making progress on schedule with the construction of its first factory in Kaohsiung. The second factory has also received the necessary license, and administrative procedures are underway. The city government has ensured that Kaohsiung has ample water and electricity supply, as well as available land. Plans are in place for a reclaimed water plant and the promotion of green electricity. The government is fully committed to assisting in the development of the industrial park, including urban planning, transportation improvements, and collaborations in talent training. Kaohsiung City Government is closely cooperating with TSMC to expedite the realization of the company’s advanced processing facilities.

China has announced the suspension of preferential tariffs on certain products under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), potentially impacting cross-strait trade. Li Zhenguang, deputy dean of the Taiwan Research Institute at Beijing Union University, suggests that this move could lead to the complete termination of the ECFA, creating uncertainty for the future. Tang Yonghong, deputy director of the Taiwan Research Center at Xiamen University, considers the suspension to be moderate and emphasizes that China will respond with corresponding measures if Taiwan imposes trade bans or limitations. The development of cross-strait trade is contingent on the relationship between the two sides, with trade being affected if relations become confrontational. China’s suspension of tariff concessions for 12 imported items is seen as a warning to Taiwan in defense of the ＂1992 Consensus,＂ indicating China’s unwavering stance on cross-strait relations.

Greenpeace stages dramatic protests at the national campaign headquarters of the Democratic Progressive Party, Kuomintang, and Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidates, symbolizing Taiwan’s ＂lack of green electricity.＂ Activists construct towering billboards to voice concerns about Taiwan’s environmental and economic crises due to inadequate green energy development. Greenpeace urges all candidates to commit to enhancing green energy targets for 2030. Lai Ching-te, the DPP candidate, references COP28’s decision and President Tsai Ing-wen’s efforts to complete the first phase of the energy transition. Taiwan’s green electricity supply now exceeds 10 percent, surpassing nuclear power generation.

KMT vice presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong challenges the narrative of the ＂1992 Consensus,＂ stating it was not used during cross-strait negotiations. He explains that the parties involved articulated their positions orally with no unified expression, and it was later that Su Chi introduced the term. Jaw also addresses the DPP’s stance on the ＂One China＂ policy, stating that the DPP urges Beijing to acknowledge ＂One China＂ as the Republic of China, a recognition unlikely from Beijing. He critiques the DPP’s performance over their 8-year tenure and suggests that the electorate could express dissatisfaction by transferring power to the KMT. Jaw acknowledges the contributions of Taiwanese businesses to China’s economic development and asserts that Taiwan could demand economic concessions from China. He questions the need for increased defense spending and extended conscription in Taiwan in the absence of an immediate threat, stating that conflict between the two sides should and must not occur.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Education’s ’108 curriculum’ has brought about new educational outcomes, as noted by Premier Chen Chien-jen. The 2022 International Civic and Citizenship Education Study (ICCS 2022) by the International Association for the Evaluation of Educational Achievement (IEA) reveals that Taiwanese students have achieved top global rankings in civic knowledge, gender equality, and ethnic group equality. The government’s efforts to strengthen education through the new curriculum have also been recognized by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). Among 81 countries assessed, Taiwanese students ranked third in mathematics literacy, fourth in science, and fifth in reading. Premier Chen emphasized that these achievements highlight Taiwan’s exceptional students and demonstrate the nation’s commitment to investing in education. The OECD evaluation further solidifies Taiwan’s position on the world stage for educational accomplishments, showcasing the effectiveness of its educational policies and curriculum advancements. Premier Chen expressed confidence in Taiwan’s youth and the government’s education approach, stating that these high rankings represent a valuable investment in the future generations of Taiwan.

National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYMCU) has partnered with the American Climate Club (ACC) to establish the American Taiwan Climate Club. This collaboration aims to contribute to the global net-zero carbon emissions target by 2050. The two institutions have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop international carbon standards and propose a white paper on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies. NYMCU is committed to raising global citizens with sustainability awareness and plans to integrate the 17 Sustainable Development Goals into its academics and research. The partnership also has the potential to pave the way for Taiwan’s engagement in international carbon trading and promote green economic growth. The American Climate Club, registered in Texas, collaborates with government agencies, carbon reduction technology firms, carbon quality monitoring, carbon asset services, and climate and carbon finance funds. The newly formed American Taiwan Climate Club will focus on climate education, international cooperation, carbon project investment, carbon advisory services, and policy research to strengthen climate protection efforts.

Tainan’s Garden Night Market has been recognized as the only five-star night market in southern Taiwan, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che praised the city’s street food, which has contributed to its reputation as a food capital and attracted admiration from consumers both domestically and internationally. With the support of the Tainan City Government Economic Development Bureau and the efforts of market vendors, Tainan has received the highest rating of 1465 stars in the MOEA ratings, surpassing all other cities in Taiwan. The Flowers Night Market in Tainan’s north district is one of only two new entries in the prestigious five-star market category across the island. The Economic Development Bureau mentioned that the record number of five-star awards this year indicates the effectiveness of the incentive system in motivating markets and vendors. In anticipation of Tainan’s 400th anniversary, the local Bureau plans to expand the awards to include four-star markets and notable vendors next year, inviting entrepreneurs to join in celebrating the city’s rich history.

Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan expresses optimism about trade talks with the United States, citing U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai’s positive stance on advancing Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with key trading partners. The discussions between Taiwan and the United States have made significant progress, with the US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade already reaching five agreements. Second-phase talks, including agriculture, are currently underway. The possibility of addressing tariffs in the negotiations is not ruled out. Additionally, the U.S. House of Representatives has proposed mutual tax exemption to alleviate taxation burdens, a development that could spare corporations and individuals from double taxation issues. Cheng emphasizes the need for diligent and concerted effort in deepening economic ties between Taiwan and the United States.

Chairman Mitsuo Ohashi of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association visited the Kaohsiung City government to discuss enhancing industry, education, and tourism cooperation exchanges with Mayor Chen Chi-Mai. Ohashi emphasized the significance of Kaohsiung in Japan’s relations with Taiwan. Mayor Chen expressed enthusiasm for deeper interactions between Taiwan and Japan, highlighting the crucial role of Taiwan’s semiconductor industry in global supply chain security. He cited the collaboration between Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) in Kaohsiung and Kumamoto, Japan, as an example of potential economic cooperation. Chen described the Taiwan-Japan relationship as a deepening bond, referencing their long-standing friendship and mutual support during crises. Ohashi, who visited Kaohsiung 40 years ago and has maintained connections with past Mayor Chen Chu and Taiwan’s representative to Japan, Frank Hsieh, expressed admiration for Kaohsiung’s recent development. He believes that Japan-Kaohsiung cooperation should extend to the private enterprise level and is hopeful for the future of Japanese-Taiwanese relations. Ohashi frequently speaks at the annual National Day reception at the Taiwan Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan, advocating for promoting friendly Japan-Taiwan relations as an example for the international community.

Alexander Yui, Taiwan’s new representative to the United States, arrived in Washington D.C. on Monday (Dec. 11), to assume his post. Ingrid Larson, the managing director of the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), welcomed him at the airport. Yui’s arrival follows the resignation of former representative Hsiao Bi-khim on Nov. 20. Yui, who had recently become the top envoy to the EU and Belgium, was chosen to replace Hsiao. Yui emphasized security, economic and trade cooperation, and Taiwan’s international space as the key aspects of Taiwan-U.S. relations. He highlighted the need to safeguard Taiwan’s upcoming election from external influences. Yui committed to deepening Taiwan-U.S. relations by building on Hsiao’s work and collaborating with his embassy team. Laura Rosenberger, chair of AIT, expressed confidence in Yui’s experience and anticipated further development and strengthening of the bilateral partnership.

Taiwan is among the potential beneficiaries of Indonesia’s contemplation to offer visa-free entry for tourists from 20 major source countries, following the example set by Thailand. Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, disclosed in an interview that the government is discussing the launch of a visa exemption policy to attract more tourists and boost local economic development. Currently, travelers, including short-term tourists, need to secure a visa to visit Indonesia, including the option of Visa on Arrival (VOA) at designated entry points. Taiwanese passport holders can apply for VOA at 15 airports across Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and Bali, allowing them to stay up to 30 days with a one-time extension option. Given Taiwan’s place within the top 20 sources of foreign tourists to Indonesia, there is a significant chance that it will be included in the visa exemption program. This move could simplify travel for Taiwanese citizens and deepen tourism-based interactions between the two nations.

Premier Chen Chien-jen of Taiwan’s Executive Yuan emphasized the critical role of building materials in the country’s transition towards a net-zero future. Speaking at the opening ceremony of the TaiPei Building Show, Premier Chen highlighted the event’s significance in boosting the international visibility of Taiwan’s building materials industry. This emphasis aligns with the National Development Council’s announcement of Taiwan’s 2050 net-zero emissions pathway, which outlines a strategy encompassing energy, industry lifestyle, and society. Premier Chen stressed the importance of developing industrially competitive, sustainable, and resilient business processes that could reduce emissions and promote circular usage. With Taiwan working towards meeting its climate commitments, the Premier expressed optimism about the collective industry effort to drive a green transition and support the country’s economic expansion.

Taiwan’s National Development Council Minister, Kung Ming-hsin, expressed the hope for Taiwan to swiftly sign an Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA) with Australia. In his speech, he emphasized the potential for collaboration in the hydrogen energy sector to boost industrial development between the two countries. Kung, on behalf of Taiwan’s government, accepted the official release of the 2023 White Paper by the Australia New Zealand Chamber of Commerce (ANZCHAM). He highlighted the record high trade of US$34.08 billion among Taiwan, New Zealand, and Australia last year. Kung also emphasized Australia’s crucial role as a major supplier of energy and agricultural products for Taiwan, emphasizing the complementarity between their economic industries. He mentioned Taiwan’s involvement in offshore wind financing operations with the Macquarie Group and its target of 10% of its energy mix coming from hydrogen, particularly green hydrogen, illustrating the potential for energy cooperation with New Zealand and Australia.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has pledged an additional $2 million over the next five years to support the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC). The donation aims to enhance the fisheries capabilities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS), including Taiwan’s Pacific allies. MOFA has already contributed $2 million since 2017 to establish a foundation that promotes sustainable fishery practices and economic development in these communities. The Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission is currently holding its annual session in the Cook Islands.

Taiwan’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Wang Mei-hua, has announced that Taiwan will closely monitor the development of new nuclear technologies, such as small modular reactors and fusion power, and remain open to their adoption. Premier Chen Chien-jen has highlighted that addressing the challenges surrounding nuclear waste from fusion technology could significantly increase societal support for the technology. This declaration comes as over 20 countries, including the United States and Japan, proposed at the 28th meeting of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) to triple global nuclear power capacity by 2050. Additionally, nearly 120 countries committed to tripling renewable energy generation internationally within the next seven years. At COP28, 22 countries advocated for nuclear energy, focusing on small modular reactors and nuclear fusion technology, as well as securing international financial support for their development. These discussions at COP28 reflect a growing interest in diverse and innovative approaches to addressing climate change and powering the future.

The campaign spokesperson for Democratic Progressive Party’s (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, Chen Shih-kai, has called on Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih to clarify his stance on allowing Chinese workers into Taiwan. Chen expressed concerns about the impact on the employment of Taiwan’s youth and requested an outline of supporting measures. This request for clarification follows Hou’s proposal to promote increased cross-strait exchanges, including opening up to Chinese tourists and students. Chen criticized Hou’s policy, suggesting it aimed to help alleviate China’s youth unemployment problems. He highlighted Taiwan’s strong economic abilities, contrasting it with Hong Kong’s declining stock market due to Chinese government control. Chen also criticized China’s lack of transparency regarding its economic downturn and high unemployment rate. He emphasized the importance of Taiwan’s economic development and integration with the global community, stating that the future direction of Taiwan depends on its leadership. These remarks reflect the DPP’s stance on maintaining a strong local economy and labor market while considering broader cross-strait policies and potential socioeconomic impacts.

The Chinese National Federation of Industries (CNFI) will host the ＂2023 Taiwan Economic Development Forum — Dialogue with Future National Leaders＂ on Nov. 27, 29-30. The forum aims to address critical issues for Taiwan’s economic development, including industrial development, energy, environmental protection, labor force, taxation, international trade, cross-strait economic relations, long-term care, and social insurance. Key candidates for the upcoming presidential election, including Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) Chairman Ko Wen-je, Kuomintang (KMT) New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih, and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te, will present their policies and participate in discussions. The forum will be presided over by CNFI Chairman Matthew F.C. Miau, Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce (CNAIC) Chairman Thomas Wu, and General Chamber of Commerce of the Republic of China (ROCCOC) Chairman Paul Hsu. The event will take place at the Taipei International Convention Center (TICC).