Taiwan Country Report
Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is a highly developed island located in East Asia. Taiwan’s focus on export-oriented industrial activities has led to rapid economic growth. The highly urbanized island population is concentrated along the low-lying west coast. For years, Taiwan’s domestic and foreign policies have focused on the issue of independence from the People’s Republic of China (PRC), which claims territorial sovereignty. Relations between Taipei and China are often tense, but the two sides are unlikely to clash openly. There are no specific safety concerns that affect travel or business operations in Taiwan. However, the island is very vulnerable to natural disasters such as tropical storms and earthquakes. However, government investment in emergency preparedness and recovery programs partially mitigates these threats.
Last updated: August 27, 2022
Security
Crime, terrorism, and insurgency are not major concerns in Taiwan, and the current threat level is unlikely to increase any time soon. Although the likelihood of conflict is low, tensions with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) over the status of the island continue.
Last updated: May 13, 2022
Infrastructure
There are no major safety concerns for air or land travel in Taiwan. Although the country’s electricity supply, mobile data coverage, and internet connectivity are stable across the island, cybercrime can pose a significant threat to business operations.
Last updated: May 13, 2022
Environment
Taiwan is prone to extreme weather events throughout the year. The typhoon season from June to October is characterized by frequent and severe storms, while the monsoon season from May to September brings heavy rains that can cause floods and landslides on the island. In addition, the island is prone to large earthquakes, and several counties are at high risk of exposure to strong earthquakes and tsunamis.
Last updated: March 17, 2022
Health and Medical
Mosquito-borne diseases, especially dengue fever, are a major health risk for travelers to Taiwan, especially in the southern regions. The island has modern medical facilities and well-equipped pharmacies, but most of these facilities are concentrated in large cities and administrative centers.
Last updated: February 18, 2022
Political
Taiwan has a stable political system. President Tsai Ing-wen of the DPP (Democratic Progressive Party) is currently relatively popular and faces no major challenges to her leadership. Democratic control of Congress allows the president to advance his efforts with little political opposition. Corruption levels are low and the rule of law is well respected. However, there are occasional media reports of abuse of power and arbitrary enforcement of the law.
Last updated: August 27, 2022
