Mid-year 2021 finds the U.S. and Taiwan light years from one another…and closer than ever. I can explain. The U.S. boasts a resurgent economy: its schools, offices, shops, and airports all back in vigorous operation. Nearly half the population has been vaccinated – and fewer than 50% are masking. There may be nothing approaching political…
Although 100-day reviews are typically the norm, I was tempted to use my inaugural President’s View as a self-report on my first 30 days in Taiwan. But it would be more fun to grade you, Dear Readers, with the following “report card.” How have staff, members, and partners performed at breaking in their new Chamber…
When I took up the AmCham Presidency last September, I didn’t foresee how personally rewarding the role would be. In many ways, I found it more engaging than my previous role as AmCham Chairperson because I am now directly involved with both the members and with the intricate details of the Chamber’s work. I also…
The March issue of TOPICS focuses on the Taiwan Government’s drive to make the island bilingual. This is one of the few initiatives that has bipartisan support, and while it has taken flight rather gradually, it seems that it will only grow in momentum. At its heart is a recognition that Taiwan will benefit economically…
This year’s Business Climate Survey results indicated a record high level of optimism in the Taiwan economy among our member companies. Nearly 86% were confident about Taiwan’s economic growth in the next 12 months – up from around 60% one year ago. Such an outlook may seem counterintuitive given the impact of COVID-19 (80% of…
It is hard to know what 2021 will bring us, but it appears that travel will not be a big part of the agenda, at least in the first half of the year! As per tradition (Don Shapiro informs me this goes back to 2003), the Wine & Dine edition of TOPICS will help provide you…
As we head to the end of what has been a very difficult year, I would like to thank our readers and advertisers for their continued support! This year marked the 50th anniversary of Taiwan Business TOPICS magazine and we are very proud of the status it has achieved. For those who have not read…
After 13 years in the same office space, AmCham has now started our office renovation. The staff have all moved down into the 6th floor Lincoln Room while the 7th floor main office undergoes a major renovation. Our temporary office resembles a tech startup – very cozy and intimate. The renovation will be complete early next year,…
Taiwan appears to be making progress in pursuing a bilateral trade agreement (BTA) with the U.S. September’s visit of Under Secretary of State Keith Krach, while brief, was a strong indication of the U.S. government’s desire to move ahead on strengthening economic relations with Taiwan. Still, a lot of work needs to be done to move…
The end of summer always seems to come with a lot of changes. We are pleased that the Taiwan government has finally relaxed its rules with respect to the importation of American pork and beef products. This issue has long been a sticking point for the U.S. government, and it is important that progress is…
