Asia Pacific & Middle East

Market profile

Taiwan is an island nation with a population of almost 23 million. It is economically strong and is the world's 17th-largest economy, 14th-largest exporter, and 16th-largest importer. Taiwan's trade surplus is about USD 290 billion, making it the 4th highest in the world. More than 9.4 million Taiwanese travelled overseas in 2010. That is 39% of a population of 23 million. Total outbound travel is projected to increase 3-8% per year during the coming 5 years, and even more if the economy improves.

When Direct Link between China and Taiwan opened in July 2008, travel restrictions were lifted, increasing traffic through Taipei - a hub for connections to international routes. Faster economic growth is expected with the KMT government due to friendlier ties with China. Tensions and antagonism of the past administration towards China have been greatly reduced, and the risk of war eradicated. Good relations are good for business on both sides.