Written by Sin Lee and Chan-Yuan Wong. This article argues that Taiwan’s AI and net-zero transitions risk creating a K-shaped economy, as large firms gain better access to capital, technology, talent, and renewable energy while SMEs struggle with upgrading costs. It examines how unequal access to green electricity could constrain SMEs’ participation in global supply chains and proposes policy support.
Written by Jozef Huljak. This article discusses how Lithuania is resuming economic cooperation talks with Taiwan despite internal political pressure to reset relations with Beijing. This strategy aims to shift the relationship from symbolic solidarity to durable economic interest, testing Europe’s resolve against Chinese coercion while proving that a resilient, mutually beneficial partnership can withstand domestic political cycles.
Written by Jordan Laramore. This article explores how Taiwan Beer reflects the island’s turbulent political and economic history. Originating under Japanese colonial rule in 1919 and later shaped by ROC government agricultural policies, most notably incorporating local Ponlai rice, the brand evolved into a cultural icon. Today, Taiwan Beer faces market liberalisation, foreign competition, and cross-strait trade tensions, transforming from a state-managed monopoly into a powerful symbol of Taiwanese identity and resilience against economic coercion.
Written by Shao-Yun Chang, Vanny El Rahman, and Beatrice Zani. This article (part 2) continues to illustrate how the US-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) and its mandatory “zero-fee” recruitment policies impact Taiwan’s fishing industry. While designed to protect foreign migrant workers from predatory debt bondage, the policy places heavy financial strain on small-scale vessel owners already facing declining yields and rising costs.
Written by Shao-Yun Chang, Vanny El Rahman, and Beatrice Zani. This article (part 1) examines how the US-Taiwan Agreement on Reciprocal Trade (ART) and its mandatory “zero-fee” recruitment policies impact Taiwan’s fishing industry. While designed to protect foreign migrant workers from predatory debt bondage, the policy places heavy financial strain on small-scale vessel owners already facing declining yields and rising costs. Ultimately, the piece highlights how these sweeping regulations risk driving illicit practices without solving systemic supply-chain issues.
Written by Drake Long. This article explores the opportunities and challenges facing Taiwan’s dual-use defence industry. Although Taiwan’s industry is ambitious to become a manufacturing hub for drones and other dual-use technologies, its success depends on sustained government investment and access to foreign markets, with the EU as an ideal target for deepening ties.
