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Natixis: Taiwan’s economy set for growth amid 2024 election
The upcoming Taiwan presidential election is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s economic growth, according to a research report by France’s Natixis Corporate and Investment Banking company. The report suggests that regardless of the election outcome, Taiwan is poised for economic growth, with the consumer and tech industries leading the way. The research predicts that economic growth could increase from 1.2% in 2023 to 2.9% in 2024. While candidates share similar social and labor policies, the report highlights the major differences in their positions on industrial and energy areas, as well as Taiwan’s economic relationship with China. The report also mentions the potential role of Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) candidate Ko Wen-je in triggering legislative instability. The incumbent Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), leading in polls, is expected to continue pushing for diversified trade and investment policies, shifting focus from China to the U.S. and other Asian regions. However, achieving these targets may be challenging as Taiwan has missed out on regional trade and economic agreements such as RCEP, CPTTP, and the U.S.-led IPEF. If the Kuomintang (KMT) wins the election, they might seek closer trade and investment links with China by expanding the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA), according to Natixis.2024/01/06 17:16 -
CNFI to host economic forum with presidential hopefuls
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).2023/11/24 18:10 -
Renewable energy becomes focus ahead of 2024 elections
Presidential candidates in Taiwan have unveiled energy policies that prioritize renewable energy and low-carbon gas as bridging fuels. Taipower, the national power company, has announced plans to accelerate the construction of gas turbine units across the country. The Hsieh-Ho Power Plant, which supplies electricity to the northern region, is currently undergoing an environmental impact assessment. Shifting from oil to gas can reduce air pollution by 96% and greenhouse gas emissions by 52%. In recent years, the government, private sector, and Taipower have made significant efforts to increase the capacity of renewable energy devices. As of September this year, the cumulative capacity of photovoltaic installations exceeded 11.55 million kilowatts, and wind power reached 2,583,000 kilowatts. By prioritizing green energy and using gas, Taipower has reduced air pollution emissions from thermal power plants by 60%, dropping from approximately 107,000 metric tons in 2016 to about 42,000 metric tons in 2022.2023/11/04 14:02