Written by Alexander C. Tan. This article argues that Taiwan finds itself in a uniquely vulnerable position in the shifting landscape of international trade. The Taiwanese economy is heavily reliant on international trade. Taiwan is also excluded from major regional trade agreements such as the RCEP and CPTPP, limiting its options for diversifying trade relationships and mitigating the impact of tariffs.
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 Tang Meng Kit. Teresa Teng’s music transcended borders, offering a lesson in unity amid rising nationalism in Taiwan and China. Her banned songs influenced Chinese soldiers to defect and challenged state-controlled narratives. Her legacy proves that cultural identity can bridge divides, showing that soft power remains a vital force in geopolitics.
Written by Adrienne Wu and Yuchen Lee. The article discusses the impact of budget cuts to Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture. These cuts, including major reductions to media promotion, threaten Taiwan’s cultural industries, limit international outreach, and undermine the country’s ability to counter Beijing’s media influence.
Written by Jasper Roctus. This article revisits a rare moment of bipartisanship from two decades ago when the DPP’s incumbent president Chen Shui-bian met with the PFP leader James Soong. The meeting offers insights into the possibilities and limits of political reconciliation in Taiwan in 2025. Even politically opposed figures can agree to embrace greater tolerance and goodwill.
Written by Wei-Jie Liao. This article questions the justification and methods of the unprecedented budget cuts passed by Taiwan’s opposition in 2025, noting flawed reasoning behind many proposals. The author advocates for the importance of transparency and accountability in the budget process for both the executive and legislative branches.
Written by Dr Chieh-chi Hsieh. This article argues that the KMT will suffer more substantial political backlash than the TPP both in the short term and long term. The KMT legislators will face the nationwide recall motions, while the TPP will not lose any of their legislators. The KMT is also going to bear the electoral cost of the internalisation of the cross-Strait confrontation.
Written by Hsin-Yi Chao. This article discusses cultural equity and the rights of persons with disabilities in Taiwan. It examines cultural equity subsidies since 2016, noting that despite overall budget growth, cultural equity funding remains unstable. The author highlights a case where budget cuts led to the suspension of sign language interpretation services and proposes policy recommendations to strengthen cultural equity implementation.
Written by Meng Kit Tang. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te faces a critical leadership test amid a budget standoff with an opposition-controlled legislature. Key defence cuts, including Taiwan’s submarine program, raise security concerns. Lai must balance strong leadership and negotiation to avoid political paralysis. Lessons from Taiwan’s political history offer guidance for effective crisis management.
Written by Brian Hioe. This article examines the similarities and differences of the partisan contestation in the Legislative Yuan between the recent crisis and the Chen Shui-bian era. It highlights the long-term structural weakness of the Pan-Blue camp that is working against its attempt to reshape Taiwan’s political system.
Taiwan Insight 