Taiwan
Taiwan is an island nation in East Asia, officially known as the Republic of China, with its capital in Taipei. The territory has a population of about 23 million people and operates as a vibrant democracy with a highly developed economy centred on technology manufacturing, semiconductors, and electronics. Taiwan's currency is the New Taiwan dollar, and its semiconductor industry, led by companies such as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, makes it a critical node in global supply chains. The island has a complex political status, with the government in Taipei claiming to be the legitimate government of all China, whilst the People's Republic of China on the mainland regards Taiwan as a breakaway province that must eventually be reunified. Taiwan maintains formal diplomatic relations with only a handful of countries, including several African nations such as Eswatini, though it has extensive informal economic and cultural ties worldwide. The island is governed as a multi-party democracy with a president and legislature, and political debate often centres on the question of relations with mainland China. Taiwan's economy is export-oriented and ranks among the most competitive globally, with strengths in high-tech manufacturing and innovation. The territory is a member of the World Trade Organization and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, though its participation in international organisations is constrained by pressure from Beijing. Taiwan's geopolitical significance has grown as tensions with China have increased, making cross-strait relations a focal point of regional security discussions. The island was under Japanese colonial rule from 1895 to 1945, after which the Kuomintang government retreated there following defeat in the Chinese Civil War in 1949.
Taiwan Updates
US calls Taiwan 'trusted and capable partner', praises its ties with Eswatini
By: Reuters 4th May 2026 Taiwan is a "trusted and capable" partner of the United States and Taipei's global relationships, including with Eswatini, provide significant... →
Taiwan president arrives in Eswatini after blaming China for cancellation of prior trip
By: Reuters 4th May 2026 Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reached Eswatini on Saturday, two weeks after he was forced to postpone a trip to a diplomatic ally because Indian... →
US criticizes China's pressure on African countries to block Taiwan president's trip
By: Reuters 23rd April 2026 The United States is concerned that several African countries revoked overflight clearances for Taiwan's president at China's behest, the State... →
China praises nations that denied overflight rights for Taiwan president
By: Reuters 22nd April 2026 China heaped praise on Wednesday on three African countries that refused to let Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's aircraft fly over their... →
Daily Podcast – April 21, 2026
By: Halima Frost 21st April 2026 Making headlines: DA demands immediate suspension of SAPS Commissioner; DA unveils W Cape mayoral candidates; And, Xi says China is willing to work... →
Taiwan president cancels Africa trip blaming Chinese pressure
By: Reuters 21st April 2026 Taiwan President Lai Ching-te said on Tuesday he had cancelled his trip to Eswatini this week, after his government accused China of pressing three... →
China’s military support for Somalia is on the rise – what Taiwan and Somaliland have to do with it
16th April 2026 China recently pledged to expand military support to Somalia in its fight against al-Shabaab militants. Beijing has promised equipment, training... →
Taiwan says Cameroon visas for WTO summit riddled with errors, will not attend
By: Reuters 27th March 2026 Visas for Taiwan officials to attend a World Trade Organization (WTO) summit in Cameroon were riddled with errors leaving Taiwan unable to attend,... →
Trade ministers meet in Cameroon for critical WTO reform talks amid deep divisions
By: Reuters 26th March 2026 Trade ministers will meet in Cameroon on Thursday for crucial discussions on reforming the World Trade Organization, as some diplomats and trade... →
Why Africa needs a green bank to fund climate action and build its own renewable technology
24th March 2026 Climate change is a profound challenge to the livelihoods of many people in African countries who have contributed so little to its cause. More... →
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