Taiwan’s economy continues to expand in early 2025, driven by strong semiconductor exports and AI demand, but concerns over potential U.S. tariffs and a cooling real estate market have tempered optimism. With GDP growth projections slightly revised downward and trade policies in flux, policymakers and businesses are closely watching global demand and supply chain shifts.
Taiwan is strengthening its resilience through President Lai Ching-te’s Whole-of-Society Defense Resilience (WOSR) initiative, which integrates civil defense, economic security, and counter-disinformation efforts to bolster stability amid growing external threats.
Taiwan has bolstered its defense ties with the U.S. through record arms deals—including a $2 billion sale and an additional $385 million agreement—but a dramatic shift from a fixed 40% offset requirement to a case-by-case system now heightens financial risks and uncertainty for defense contractors.
Taiwan’s economy showed signs of recovery in late 2024, with GDP growth rebounding to 1.8% YoY, driven by steady private consumption and expansion into green technology. However, challenges persist in 2025, as consumer confidence dips amid global uncertainties and new U.S. trade policies, prompting Taiwan’s government to implement measures supporting affected businesses.
What to eat when you can’t eat anything? The search for gluten-free and anti-inflammatory dining options in Taipei has been a journey of trial and error, revealing hidden gems and hard-earned lessons in navigating strict dietary restrictions.
Ray Yen, general manager of Smith & Wollensky Taiwan, combines decades of international culinary experience with innovative approaches to steakhouse dining, blending American traditions with local flavors. His journey highlights the adaptability and creativity required to thrive in Taiwan’s restaurant industry.
When visiting Taipei, nothing warms the soul quite like hot pot. These five hot pot restaurants in Taipei combine ambiance, exceptional service, and flavor to deliver memorable dining experiences that showcase the charm of Taiwan’s culinary culture.
Two entrepreneurs turned Taiwan’s local flavors into a global opportunity by crafting a passion fruit liqueur that celebrates the island’s rich biodiversity. Their journey highlights the importance of cultural understanding, collaboration, and innovation in navigating Taiwan’s entrepreneurial landscape.
TOPICS Senior Editor Julia Bergström sat down with GE Vernova’s Roger Martella to discuss electrification, decarbonization, and the global energy transition, highlighting Taiwan’s role as a pragmatic leader. Drawing from his experience as former EPA General Counsel, Martella emphasized the importance of integrity, collaboration, and innovation in advancing sustainability efforts.
The Boiling Moat: Urgent Steps to Defend Taiwan, edited by Matt Pottinger, outlines strategies for Taiwan and its allies to counter potential Chinese aggression. Highlighting Taiwan’s role in global stability and the semiconductor industry, the book calls for urgent military reforms and coordinated defenses to deter conflict and protect democratic values.
