Taiwan policy 結果共264筆

Solomon Islands gears up for elections, reigniting discussions on diplomatic ties with Taiwan and China. Peter Kenilorea Jr. advocates for reevaluating the security agreement with China, proposing a ＂dual recognition＂ policy.

Taiwan’s export performance reached a historic high from 2021 to 2023, but experienced a 9.8% decline in 2023 compared to the previous year, according to the Ministry of Finance. Despite this setback, exports to the U.S. continued to soar with a 49.7% year-on-year increase, while exports to countries covered by Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy also saw significant growth. However, exports to mainland China decreased to 35.2%. Taiwan’s total export tally for 2023 amounted to US$432.48 billion, ranking behind only 2022 and 2021. The demand for communications and electronic products during the pandemic-induced work-from-home trend boosted Taiwan’s exports. The Taiwan Institute of Economic Research predicted significant international trade growth in 2024, which would benefit export-oriented economies like Taiwan. In December 2023, Taiwan’s exports to the U.S. reached $8.49 billion, and exports to southern countries surged by over 50%. However, due to the limited coverage of free trade agreements (FTAs), many traditional Taiwanese industries chose to restructure risks and production in Southeast and South Asia. The return of Taiwanese businesses and the expansion of local factories after the U.S.-China trade war, as well as global economic circumstances, significantly impacted the decline in 2023 exports. The Directorate General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS) estimated the first-quarter export volume for 2024 to be around US$106.1 billion, which is an improvement compared to the same period in 2023, but a 10% decrease from 2022.

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) has abruptly halted the solicitation of tours to China, reversing its previous policy. Originally scheduled to open on March 1, tours from Taiwan to China were limited to a daily reference cap of 2,000 people, with the possibility of adjustments based on the travel industry’s ability to attract customers. The decision to halt the tours immediately was made in response to China’s failure to organize tours to Taiwan and its unilateral change of the M503 flight route without goodwill, which poses a threat to flight safety. The Tourism Administration, a part of the MOTC, believes that given the current circumstances, it is not in the best interest of Taiwanese nationals to travel to China. They continue to appeal to China to demonstrate goodwill and promote cross-strait tourism exchange. Tours that have already been solicited and are due to depart between March 1 and May 31, 2024, will proceed as planned to protect passenger rights, but tours after June 1 are not permitted to depart. Travel companies are urged to refrain from soliciting customers to avoid potential disputes.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump pledges to reapply tariffs on Chinese goods, potentially exceeding 60%, if he wins the November presidential election. He offers no clear answer on whether he would assist Taiwan in the event of a Chinese attack. Trump plans on imposing a 60% tariff on Chinese goods, a number that may increase. He is leading in the Republican primary and is expected to face incumbent President Joe Biden in November. Trump imposed tariffs amounting to US$250 billion on Chinese imported goods during his term, sparking a trade war. Biden retained Trump’s tariff policy and banned the export of advanced semiconductors and semiconductor production equipment. Trump disputes rumors of another trade war with China, stating that he has handled all matters related to China well. He also criticizes Taiwan for taking semiconductor jobs from the U.S. and suggests imposing tariffs and trade barriers on Taiwan.

National Taiwan University (NTU) has announced the graduate thesis quality and review standards for over 40 departments or degree programs, with the exception of the department involved in past plagiarism disputes. The Graduate Institute of National Development, which was implicated in the rescission of degrees awarded to former Hsinchu City mayor Lin Chih-chien and Vice Premier Cheng Wen-tsan, has not yet released its thesis verification policy. In response, NTU’s Office of Academic Affairs expressed regret over the disputes and implemented measures to enhance the quality of graduate theses. Some departments are still discussing the new directions. Under the new policy, each department is required to establish their own evaluation mechanisms, which may include limitations on the number of graduate students per professor, originality standards for theses, and a threshold for acceptable content similarity.

Kuomintang (KMT) legislator Han Kuo-yu has been elected as the speaker of Taiwan’s Legislative Yuan, with Johnny Chiang as his deputy. As speaker, Han is responsible for maintaining order in the legislative body and overseeing legislative matters. According to the ＂Act Governing the Discipline of Legislators,＂ Han’s monthly salary is equivalent to that of central government department heads, amounting to NT$346,960, with an additional special remuneration of NT$79,100. Johnny Chiang, as deputy speaker, will earn a monthly salary of approximately NT$229,860. Legislators in Taiwan receive an average monthly salary of about NT$190,500, along with an annual bonus equivalent to 1.5 months’ salary. Han’s role grants him decisive power in the event of tied votes or disputes over legislation, giving him a significant role in shaping future policy.

Former Legislative Speaker You Si-kun has resigned from his at-large legislator position, citing personal plans. This decision was reported to President-elect Lai Ching-te on January 19. Former Democratic Progressive Party legislator Julian Kuo disclosed that Lai had selected two departing Taiwan People’s Party legislators for his cabinet and arranged for You to assume another high-level position. The vacant at-large legislator position will be filled by Dr. Wang Cheng-hsu, Chairman of HOPE Foundation for Cancer Care. Additionally, DPP policy head Wang Yi-chuan may potentially take on the at-large legislator role if more vacancies arise. DPP legislator Chuang Jui-hsiung, who is rumored to be appointed as the Minister of Agriculture, has not yet received any official appointment.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) will closely monitor developments in Tuvalu post-election, as most elected officials have established frequent interactions and friendly stances with Taiwan, ensuring solid diplomatic ties. MOFA condemns China’s attempt to influence the election by buying off local media in Tuvalu. The loss of Tuvalu’s pro-Taiwan Prime Minister has sparked speculation about a potential shift in foreign policy and diplomatic alliance with Beijing. However, MOFA notes that the majority of elected Tuvalu officials maintain good relations with Taiwan and support upholding the amicable relations between the two countries. MOFA urges the international community to pay attention and counter autocratic dictatorial countries that manipulate elections in democratic states. This development reflects the ongoing competition between China and Taiwan for diplomatic allegiances in the Pacific region, with countries sometimes switching allegiances for economic or political support.

The Minister of Economic Affairs, Wang Mei-hua, plans to help Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) seek budgetary support from the Executive Yuan to alleviate its financial distress. Taipower reached out to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA) for assistance, citing escalating international fuel prices caused by the Russia-Ukraine war. Other global power companies, such as Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO), Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO), and Électricité de France (EDF), have already experienced significant price hikes. Taipower’s rates are relatively low compared to the cost of power generation, resulting in policy-driven losses. As of 2023, Taipower has accumulated losses of NT$382.6 billion due to absorbing price increases to protect Taiwan from global inflation. The MOEA disclosed that Taipower and the CPC Corporation have discrepancies in predicting natural gas prices, leading Taipower to observe international coal prices for cost estimates in 2024. While mitigating Taipower’s financial woes in the short term poses challenges, Wang aims to prevent further losses. The MOEA will assist Taipower in lobbying the government for budget support once financial situation estimates are finalized. The decision to adjust electricity prices will be made by the Electricity Price Review Committee.

Explore how Taiwan is positioned in the global geothermal energy landscape. Professor Song Sheng-rong categorizes leading nations and advocates for robust policies to unlock Taiwan’s vast underground potential, aiming to elevate the island into a sustainable energy powerhouse.

Taiwan’s Premier Chen Chien-jen and his cabinet have tendered their resignations, which were approved during a cabinet meeting. The resignations await confirmation by the president for a new government to take charge on May 20. The premier is expected to step down before the first legislative assembly after the current legislators’ term expires. The executive branch will continue to push its policy agenda during this transitional period, aiming to work with the new legislative body to promote policies beneficial to the nation and its citizens. Chen Chien-jen launched significant policies during his term, including cash handouts, education subsidies, and safety measures for a sustainable automobile society. He also emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to defense capabilities and democracy through the successful submarine launch and the resumption of one-year military service.

The Taiwanese Executive Yuan vows to stabilize the stock market amidst recent fluctuations, according to Cabinet Spokesman Lin Tze-luen. Lin reiterates the commitment to policy implementation during the caretaker period after the cabinet’s resignation. The government remains focused on achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and will continue discussions on energy issues. The upcoming electricity tariff review meeting will maintain established adjustment mechanisms. Despite recent downturns, Taiwan’s economic fundamentals are solid, expressing confidence in economic recovery.

Following the victory of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in Taiwan’s presidential election, a report by the Asia Society Policy Institute (ASPI) suggests that Beijing might escalate activities in gray zone areas. The report highlights Taiwan’s increased geopolitical prominence and its pivotal role in semiconductor manufacturing, making the stability of the Taiwan Strait a key concern for the U.S. and other Western nations. The report also notes that Vice President Lai Ching-te won the election by over 40% of votes, breaking the trend of switching ruling parties every eight years since direct presidential elections were implemented in 1996. The victorious DPP aims to strengthen Taiwan’s defenses and relations with like-minded nations while resisting negotiations with Beijing. Additionally, the party seeks to reduce Taiwan’s trade dependency on China and strengthen ties with significant partners such as Australia, Europe, and Japan. With no party securing a majority in the legislative assembly, the DPP faces a ＂minority government and majority opposition＂ scenario, which could hinder the government’s legislative and budgeting process and impact Taiwan-U.S. ties. Despite the election, cross-strait relations and regional tensions are unlikely to undergo fundamental changes. Taiwan’s vital position in semiconductor manufacturing and geopolitics ensures its continued rise in importance, with the U.S. and Western nations playing a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Taiwan Strait. The upcoming U.S. presidential election in November is expected to significantly impact the U.S.-China-Taiwan triangle, and a potential return of former President Trump to the White House might please Beijing, according to the report.

The Ministry of National Defense in Taiwan has announced new training assessment rules for recruits, emphasizing strict criteria to qualify for additional allowances and professional certificates. This comes as Taiwan extends its mandatory military service to one year, with enhanced training activities including realistic military drills.

Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. breaks tradition by congratulating Taiwan’s president-elect Lai Ching-te on his victory, a rare gesture due to the Philippines’ adherence to the ＂One-China policy＂ since 1975. Marcos Jr., in his social media post, referred to Lai as ＂Taiwan’s president＂ for the first time since taking office. He expressed his hopes for stronger ties between the two nations, emphasizing collaboration, mutual interests, peace, and prosperity in the future.

President-elect Lai Ching-te met with a U.S. delegation, expressing Taiwan’s commitment to peace in the Taiwan Strait. He thanked the U.S. for their congratulations and support, and pledged to work with the U.S. and like-minded allies to maintain stability. The delegation included Stephen Hadley and James Steinberg, who emphasized the consistent U.S. policy towards Taiwan. They also met with other Taiwanese politicians, including New Taipei’s mayor and representatives from the Taiwan People’s Party and Kuomintang.

The 2024 Taiwan elections, marked by a victory for the Democratic Progressive Party, have drawn global attention and sparked discussions on the island’s future relations with China and the United States. Experts analyze the implications of Lai Ching-te’s leadership and the reactions from Washington amidst rising regional tensions.

Taiwan’s legislative election results from Jan. 13 show a close race, with the Kuomintang (KMT) gaining a slight lead over the Democratic Progress Party (DPP). The Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) also made gains. This article explores the implications of the election on Taiwan’s parliamentary dynamics and potential challenges in legislation and governance.

In Taiwan’s heated presidential race, TPP candidate Ko Wen-je responds to DPP’s scrutiny, emphasizing the need for a pragmatic approach in managing Taiwan’s role amid U.S.-China relations.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has begun distributing COVID-19 rapid test kits to travelers at Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei. The kits are available in the reception areas and exit halls of both terminals, and each traveler is eligible to receive one kit regardless of age. The decision was made in response to the increasing rates of respiratory diseases worldwide. The CDC Deputy Director-General, Philip Lo, stated that the peak of the COVID-19 surge in Taiwan is expected to be in mid-to-late January, with a possible rise after the Lunar New Year holidays. Travelers have expressed appreciation for the policy, with many noting how thoughtful and helpful the Taiwanese government is. The distribution of test kits may continue after the Lunar New Year holidays, depending on the international and domestic pandemic conditions.

Kuomintang (KMT) vice presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong criticizes President Tsai Ing-wen’s acceptance of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s statements, arguing that the ＂One China＂ concept in the 1992 Consensus refers to the Republic of China and not the People’s Republic of China. Jaw emphasizes that ＂One China＂ is the Republic of China, which predates the People’s Republic of China by 38 years and highlights its status as Asia’s first democratic republic. He rebuts claims that the KMT’s agreement to the 1992 Consensus poses dangers to Taiwan, stating that the consensus is meant to end the argument and focus on individual duties. Jaw also argues that Tsai’s actions depict a pro-independence stance, despite her verbal denial.

President Tsai Ing-wen criticizes China’s one-sided trade barriers and emphasizes that bilateral trade relations should not be used as a political tool in her New Year’s address. The tariff preference for certain products under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) has been suspended as of Jan. 1, 2024. Tsai notes China’s intervention in elections and expresses confidence in the people of Taiwan to make wise decisions. She argues that Taiwan’s industries already have global exposure and are gradually reducing reliance on China. Tsai believes that while the economic benefits of the ECFA are limited, diversifying risks and global positioning are important for Taiwan’s industries. She highlights that China often imposes unilateral trade barriers on other countries for political reasons, citing examples of punitive tariffs and import bans on Lithuania and Australia due to their friendly relationship with Taiwan and criticism of China’s human rights policy in Xinjiang.

President Tsai Ing-wen asserts that Taiwan is globally significant economically and does not rely on China as a conduit to the world. Tsai emphasizes the importance of Taichung in the upcoming elections, stating that over 50 percent of presidential and vice presidential votes will come from the city. She acknowledges that inadequate infrastructure has hindered economic growth during her presidency, leading to an investment of NT＄4 trillion in public infrastructure. Tsai also highlights her significant investments in social welfare, including elderly care aids, subsidies for children, and income tax exemptions for 47 percent of the Taiwanese population. She urges support for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te in the 2024 election to continue her approach of incorporating economics, defense, and democracy to protect Taiwan.

In this story, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential nominee Lai Ching-te criticizes the outdated policy views of Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, during a presidential debate. Lai emphasizes the need for abandoning outdated policies and upgrading past efforts to comprehend and master the rapidly changing world. He outlines his policy principles, including boosting national projects, enhancing defense, economic and democratic ties, and maintaining dignified, equal cooperation with China. Lai believes that the 2024 presidential election will determine whether Taiwan aligns with democracies or authoritarian entities, and he highlights that voting for him and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim is the only option to continue collaborating with democratic allies.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has stated that Beijing is working to isolate Taiwan globally in response to criticisms made by Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih regarding Taiwan’s stagnant free trade agreements (FTA). During a presidential policy presentation, Hou criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for its unsatisfactory economic performance and the lack of progress in bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. MOFA emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to global economic integration and bilateral economic cooperation, but highlighted the interference from China. MOFA believes that Taiwan’s ability to participate effectively in economic integration depends on its strength and global connections, especially as countries like the U.S. and European nations reassess their economic risks with China. MOFA urges all Taiwanese, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and enhance cooperation with like-minded nations in the face of external challenges.