economic ties 結果共42筆

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.

Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to visit Hanoi, Vietnam for the third time since assuming leadership positions in China. Ahead of his visit, Xi emphasized the importance of strategic communication, leveraging strengths, enhancing exchanges, and managing differences in an article he penned for Vietnam’s Nhân Dân newspaper. The two countries have a longstanding economic relationship, with China being Vietnam’s largest trading partner and Vietnam being China’s largest trading partner in ASEAN and the fourth largest globally. Xi also highlighted the potential for a strategic community of shared destiny between China and Vietnam, which could positively contribute to Asian development and global peace.

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.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih proposes a pro-US and China diplomatic stance, diverging from incumbent President Tsai Ing-wen’s approach. Hou criticizes Tsai’s foreign affairs and cross-strait policies, blaming the Tsai administration for Taiwan’s diplomatic isolation, failure to join regional economic bodies, and lack of communication with China. Hou emphasizes adhering to the Constitution of the Republic of China, affirming the nation’s sovereignty, and proposing a balanced stance between fostering solid ties with the United States and engaging with Mainland China. He also highlights the importance of Taiwan being prepared and realistic about its defense, suggesting that the island’s security should not rely solely on promises from the US but on its efforts and pragmatic relations with democratic allies. Political commentator Jaw Shau-kong fiercely criticizes the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for being pro-US and anti-China, deeming Tsai’s policies on cross-strait relations and international diplomacy a complete failure. Jaw points out that despite Taiwan’s willingness to import American pork, the support has yet to translate into the U.S. helping with Taiwan’s entry into international organizations.

The upcoming Taiwanese presidential election on January 13, 2024, has been dubbed ＂2024’s most influential election in Asia＂ by Nikkei Asia. Three tickets are vying for the presidency and vice-presidency: the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) with Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, the Kuomintang (KMT) with Hou Yu-ih and Jaw Shaw-kong, and the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) with Ko Wen-je and Cynthia Wu. The election takes place amidst heightened global tensions and increasing cross-strait strains. The DPP advocates for fortified self-defense, the KMT promotes benign communication and economic ties with China, and the TPP leans towards dialogue with China. The KMT’s cross-strait policy stance has been criticized as less convincing compared to that of the DPP. The election will test whether Taiwanese voters will stand firm in defending their sovereignty against China’s growing influence.

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) responded to allegations from the Kuomintang (KMT) that DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim was excessively pro-American. Chen Shi-kai, spokesperson for DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s campaign office, criticized the KMT for its lack of understanding of economic trade issues and Taiwan-U.S. relations. The KMT, led by legislator candidate Hsu Chiao-hsin, accused Hsiao of being subservient to the U.S. during her time in Washington, citing a classified communication log documenting a bilateral meeting discussing the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for Prosperity proposed by U.S. President Joe Biden. Chen defended Hsiao by highlighting recent milestones in Taiwan-U.S. cooperation, such as the signing of the Taiwan-U.S. 21st Century Trade Initiative and efforts to resolve double taxation issues. Chen criticized the KMT candidate for illegally disclosing classified documents for political gain and called for an explanation of the motives and authenticity of the disclosure. This defense by the DPP spokesperson reflects the tensions leading up to Taiwan’s presidential elections, with U.S.-Taiwan relations remaining a significant political issue. The political drama highlights the intensity of Taiwan’s electioneering, where U.S. ties and Taiwan’s global economic positioning are crucial issues for voters. The impact of these debates on public opinion remains to be seen as Taiwan prepares for the polls.

Morris Chang, TSMC founder, met with U.S. economic adviser Lael Brainard and Secretary of State Antony Blinken at the APEC summit to discuss strengthening U.S.-Taiwan economic relations amid heightened tensions between the U.S. and China.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is currently verifying reports that Myanmar has handed over six Taiwanese telecom fraudsters to China. The MOFA is working with the Ministry of Justice, National Police Agency, and National Immigration Agency to bring these stranded citizens back to Taiwan. Myanmar’s Wa State, known for its independent judicial system and close ties with China, is where the transfer took place. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Myanmar is actively assisting Taiwanese citizens in their return. This is the first public announcement by Myanmar of transferring Taiwanese individuals involved in telecom fraud.

The Minister of Economic Affairs praised the growing industry ties between Taiwan and Japan at the 2023 Japan-Taiwan Image Exhibition. Investments from Japanese companies such as Ebara, Fujifilm, and semiconductor factories are expected to contribute significantly to Taiwan’s economy, reaching a value of NTD$10 billion. Japan’s interest in Taiwan’s semiconductor industry, particularly TSMC’s projects in Kumamoto, suggests the potential for future collaboration. Minister Wang Mei-hua emphasized the importance of adopting low-carbon and smart technologies for a sustainable future, aligning with Japan’s smart city initiatives. She also highlighted the potential of hydrogen power, urging Taiwan to follow Japan’s lead in developing new technologies and exploring infrastructure partnerships.

Taiwan and the UK have signed a historic Enhanced Trade Partnership (ETP), marking the first trade agreement of its kind between Taiwan and a European country. The agreement covers digital trade, investment, renewable energy, and net-zero carbon emissions. Future discussions may include trade facilitation, anti-corruption initiatives, and service industry management. Taiwan is the first country in the Indo-Pacific region to sign an ETP deal with the UK. The agreement is seen as a symbol of enhanced Taiwan-UK relations and could serve as a model for other nations. The deal is particularly significant considering the UK’s entrance into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which may have implications for Taiwan’s prospective membership.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has confirmed ongoing discussions for the establishment of a representative office in Estonia. While the move is significant for strengthening ties between the two nations, a shared consensus has not yet been reached. MOFA expressed gratitude towards the Estonian Government for engaging in continued negotiations and displaying an open approach. They emphasized the shared values of freedom and democracy that unite Taiwan and Estonia. Estonia’s government has reportedly agreed to allow Taiwan to establish an economic or cultural representative office in Tallinn under the name ’Taipei.’ MOFA stated that they will respond to foreign media reports of Taiwan’s Foreign Minister visiting Estonia at an appropriate time. The ministry highlighted the stable development of the bilateral relationship, citing the Estonian health minister’s support for Taiwan at this year’s World Health Assembly. Estonia is seen as a valued partner with common principles, highlighting the potential for deepening ties in future diplomatic endeavors.

Beijing’s new plan aims to foster closer integration between Taiwan and the Fujian province by promoting residency applications for Taiwanese, easing business sector restrictions, and encouraging property investment. Learn about the latest developments in Taiwan-Fujian relations.

Taiwanese Vice President Lai Ching-te met with members of the Liberal Democratic Party’s Youth Division from Japan on Monday (Aug. 21)morning.

Vice President Lai Ching-te’s successful 7-day diplomatic trip to Paraguay highlights the deepening ties between the nations. With an emphasis on shared values, collaboration, and mutual benefit, Lai’s visit underscores Taiwan’s commitment to international partnerships. Learn about key initiatives spanning education, healthcare, and economic collaboration.

Estonian legislator Marko Mihkelson highlights Baltic lawmakers’ visit to Taiwan, aiming to enhance cooperation amidst global security concerns. Discussions include digital development, cybersecurity collaboration, and economic partnerships. TSMC’s global expansion also spurs optimism. Learn more about this significant diplomatic effort.

President Tsai Ing-wen met with former Japan Prime Minister Taro Aso on Tuesday (Aug. 8), praising robust economic ties with Japan and expressing gratitude for the strong support to increase Taiwan’s global presence.

The U.S. ambassador to China, Nicholas Burns, said on Thursday (Sept. 29) that the United States is not seeking to decouple its economic ties from China.