Taiwan’s Economy in 2019: Reaping Benefits from the US–China Trade War

Abstract

Taiwan’s economy expanded moderately by 2.71% in 2019 despite the ongoing US–China trade war. The growing inward investment made by Taiwanese firms with overseas business operation had underpinned Taiwan’s economy despite falling exports. While mounting investment inflows to Taiwan would continue to buttress the economy, the rapid spread of coronavirus could threaten its growth prospects in 2020. In the long run, Taiwan’s lack of free trade agreements may further constrain its external trade development. Taiwan’s rapidly ageing population, one of key demographic trends, presents another challenge to its long-term economic prosperity.