Taiwan

Discussion Paper on the Taiwan Market

Discussion Paper Commissioned

The Asia Pacific Trade Council commissioned Dunedin Group Ltd. to prepare a discussion paper to provide information on trade and investment related issues, opportunities and challenges for British Columbia in the Taiwan market. The report was completed in May 2007.

Opinions and comments expressed in the discussion paper are those of the consultant and do not represent the position of the Province of British Columbia and/or the Asia Pacific Trade Council.

Focus of the Discussion Paper

The discussion paper focuses on the opportunities in seven priority sectors in the market, and the options for the British Columbia to increase export trade and inbound investments, in implementing the Asia Pacific Initiative announced in April 2007.

From 2004 until today, Taiwan has maintained its position as British Columbia’s fifth largest export market following only the US, Japan, China and South Korea. BC exports accounted for $535 million or 41 per cent of Canada’s total exports to Taiwan in 2006.

Key Recommendations from the Discussion Paper

1. Use a sectoral approach to quickly develop market strategies with the emerging technology sectors.
2. Leverage existing in-market B.C. assets, in areas such as tourism, education and wood products.
3. Incorporate a one-window approach to investment facilitation.
4. Have a centralized control function throughout government in implementing the Asia Pacific Initiative.
5. Work with the Federal government to set clear objectives and deliverables.
6. Make good use of promotional and marketing events in the market.