Written by Min-Hua Chiang. This article argues that the TSMC will continue to be Taiwan’s silicon shield, despite its US$100 billion investment pledge in the US, as most of the more advanced chips will be fabricated in Taiwan. That is also why Taiwan faces challenges from the US tariff threat in the near term. TSMC remains Taiwan’s best chip in its negotiations with the US.
Written by Tom Meinderts. This article discusses the effects of Trump’s tariffs and the options available for Taiwan’s trade policies. Given the importance of the US market for Taiwan’s semiconductors, it is unsurprising that Taiwan has already started negotiations to lower the tariffs. As other options remain unattractive, these negotiations may become the most important in Taiwanese history.
Written by Guan-Yi Leu. This article analyses the effects of Trump’s tariffs on Taiwan economically and geopolitically. The main concern in Taiwan was the uncertainty and unpredictability caused by the policy. It also discusses Taiwan’s response to it, both in terms of government and businesses. Taiwan’s economy has shown resilience amidst geopolitical risks and has weathered previous conflicts.
Written by Michael Reilly. This article argues that the implications of Donald Trump’s tariffs for Taiwan are much more serious than a potential 0.43% hit to its GDP growth because the US and China are its two largest export markets, placing Taiwan on the front line of the trade war. Nevertheless, the choices of Taiwan are likely to be forced upon it by the decisions of American companies.
Written by Lin, Thung-Hong. This article introduces the 2023 IJTS Open Access Award-winning paper, “Subcontractors’ Dilemma: The Expansion of Taiwanese Firms 2002–2015”, and discusses a follow-up study examining how China’s autocratisation under Xi Jinping has impacted Taiwanese firms operating in China through 2022. Together, these studies provide a comprehensive view of the challenges Taiwanese businesses face amid globalisation and shifting geopolitics, offering crucial insights into corporate strategies and government policies.
Written by Min-hua Chiang. This article examines the trend of Taiwan’s Outward Foreign Direct Investment (OFDI) amidst the geopolitical uncertainties. The declining reliance on China for manufacturing and the increasingly diversified economic links are expected to help Taiwan connect more closely with America and the rest of the world.
