Taiwan is known for its busy cities and rich culture. Over the last ten years, the population in its major cities has changed a lot due to urban growth, job opportunities, and shifts in demographics. This article explores the population dynamics of Taiwan's major cities from 2014 to 2024, providing insights into growth patterns, regional changes, and the factors influencing these developments.

Comparing Population Changes: 2014 vs. 2024

Each of Taiwan’s major cities has its own unique role, combining cultural heritage with economic and technological strengths. New Taipei City, the most populous with 4,010,657 residents, acts as a suburban extension of Taipei, drawing families and commuters with its affordable housing and excellent transportation.

Kaohsiung, home to 2,773,786 people, is shifting away from heavy industry toward a more diverse economy that emphasizes tourism and renewable energy. Taichung, with a population of 2,811,729, is known as a cultural center, boasting a mild climate and a focus on sustainable urban development.

Taipei City, the capital with 2,650,154 residents, remains the political and economic heart of Taiwan, even as high living costs drive some people to move elsewhere. Taoyuan, home to 2,240,328 people, has grown as an industrial and logistics hub, while Tainan’s 1,881,730 residents enjoy its rich history and tourism-driven economy.

Hsinchu, known as Taiwan’s “Silicon Valley,” has a population of 447,781 and continues to expand thanks to its booming tech sector. In contrast, Keelung, with 369,305 residents, and Chiayi, with 268,068, experience slower growth due to their focus on maritime and agricultural industries.

1. Growth:

   • Taichung and Taoyuan experienced the largest population growth. Taoyuan’s booming industrial sector and Taichung’s central location and strong economy have been key drivers of this trend. Both cities have also focused on improving infrastructure and promoting sustainable urban development.

2. Declining Cities:

   • Taipei and Kaohsiung saw population declines due to suburbanization, industrial changes, and younger people moving to other cities for better opportunities. High living costs in Taipei and economic shifts in Kaohsiung were major factors behind these trends.

Urbanization and Suburbanization

Taiwan’s urbanization and suburbanization trends are shaped by economic, social, and infrastructural developments. Taoyuan, for instance, has experienced substantial growth due to its role as an industrial hub and its strategic proximity to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.

The city’s population rose by over 103,000 between 2014 and 2024, driven by the expansion of industrial parks and the presence of global tech companies. Similarly, New Taipei City has emerged as a suburban extension of Taipei, offering more affordable housing and better access to the capital through robust transportation networks like the Taipei Metro and intercity railways. This connectivity has encouraged families and commuters to relocate, contributing to its population increase of 35,746 over the same period.

In contrast, Taipei City has faced population declines due to its high living costs, which have risen significantly over the decade. Between 2014 and 2024, the cost of living in Taipei increased by approximately 20%, driven by soaring real estate prices and inflation in essential goods and services. These economic pressures have driven many residents to seek alternatives in nearby suburbs.

New Taipei has absorbed much of this outflow, becoming a magnet for those looking for a balance between urban amenities and affordable living. The suburban shift, enabled by expanding infrastructure and housing developments, illustrates how affordability and connectivity are reshaping Taiwan’s metropolitan regions.

Economic Shifts

Economic opportunities strongly influence population trends, with cities like Hsinchu and Taoyuan seeing growth due to their thriving industries. Hsinchu, known as Taiwan’s “Silicon Valley,” has seen steady population increases as tech companies like TSMC expand their operations. Between 2014 and 2024, over 25 high-tech factories and research centers were established in the city, further cementing its status as a global tech hub and drawing thousands of skilled workers.

Taoyuan’s industrial growth, particularly in logistics and manufacturing, has similarly spurred population growth. The city’s industrial parks house more than 4,000 companies as of 2024, including major global players, making it one of Taiwan’s fastest-growing regions.

In contrast, Kaohsiung has faced population challenges due to the decline of traditional heavy industries, such as steel and shipbuilding, which collectively saw a reduction in output by nearly 30% between 2014 and 2024. The number of operational steel plants and shipyards in the city dropped by approximately 20% over this period, reflecting broader shifts in global manufacturing and trade patterns. Efforts to diversify into tourism and creative sectors have been slow to compensate for the loss of industrial jobs, resulting in a net population decline and slower economic recovery.

Aging Population

Taiwan’s aging population is a key factor influencing demographic shifts. Smaller cities like Chiayi and Keelung, which lack robust economic opportunities, are seeing younger generations migrate to larger urban centers in search of better prospects. This demographic imbalance has left these cities with older populations and slower economic growth.

National statistics highlight that by 2024, over 16% of Taiwan’s population was aged 65 or older, with smaller cities experiencing the most pronounced aging trends. For instance, Chiayi’s slower economy has led to consistent out-migration among youth, while Keelung faces similar challenges due to its limited diversification beyond port-related industries.

Taoyuan and Taichung Rise in Population

Rising living costs in Taipei and shifts in industrial production have pushed many residents to seek opportunities in cities that offer a better balance between affordability and employment stability. This has led to significant population growth in cities like Taoyuan and Taichung, where thriving industries, economic opportunities, and sustainable urban development make them attractive destinations for workers and families.

However, this trend has also created challenges for other cities facing stagnant or declining populations. With fewer people in the productive age range (20s to 40s), many cities outside of high-growth areas like Taoyuan and Taichung are struggling with workforce shortages. This imbalance could hinder economic development and exacerbate regional disparities in the long term.

對於許多希望在國外工作的求職者來說，台灣提供了豐富的文化、多姿多彩的自然美景以及獨特的職業機會。我們採訪了澳大利亞籍英語教師 Adrian Moore，他分享了在台灣生活和教學的經歷、來台原因、學到的心得，以及如何適應這座迷人的島嶼生活。

為什麼選擇台灣？

Adrian 的旅程始於對語言與文化的深厚熱愛，以及想要全心投入學習中文的渴望。台灣這個地方脫穎而出，成為他的理想目的地，不僅能學習語言，還擁有獨特的山海景觀、政治與文化魅力。他在疫情前的一次訪台經歷留下了深刻印象，讓他決心要回到這片土地。

「我想在一個可以完全沉浸於中文環境的地方學習。台灣不僅適合學習語言，還擁有美麗的山海景色、政治和文化交融。」

然而，隨著新冠疫情的爆發，移居到台變得更加複雜。唯一能在疫情期間留在台灣的方法就是擁有一份就業合同，而教英語便成為最容易實現的選擇。

「疫情期間，唯一能留在台灣的方法就是擁有就業合同，因此教英語是最簡單的選擇。」

意想不到的文化差異

在台灣生活，讓 Adrian 深刻體會到一些意料之外的文化差異。他很快注意到台灣文化與西方個人主義的鮮明對比。在台灣，人們往往傾向於避免突出自己，這種心態與西方的常態恰恰相反。這種文化差異深刻影響了他與學生及同事的互動方式，並讓他對台灣人處理生活與人際關係的方式產生了新的敬意。

「台灣的文化與西方的個人主義真的很不一樣。」

對 Adrian 而言，教導台灣學生既充滿挑戰又收穫滿滿。在西方教育中，創意和獨立思考往往受到鼓勵，但他發現許多台灣學生在開放性思維和創意表達方面有困難。這使他的教學工作更有意義，他努力鼓勵學生嘗試小規模的創意冒險，探索新的表達方式，從而培養他們的自信與好奇心。

「在西方教育中，學生通常被推動去創造和獨立思考，但在這裡，孩子們對於開放性思維和創造力往往感到掙扎。」

克服語言障礙

對 Adrian 而言，適應台灣的日常生活並非毫無挑戰。在台北以外地區，英文服務的有限性讓他在銀行業務或處理政府事務等日常任務中面臨更多困難。瀏覽政府網站、獲取醫療服務或找到正確的幫助，在缺乏流利中文的情況下尤為困難。儘管如此，他發現耐心與學習意願是克服這些障礙和適應台灣生活的關鍵。

「瀏覽政府網站、獲取醫療服務，甚至找到適當的幫助，沒有流利中文真的是一大挑戰。」

對於考慮來台灣教書的人，Adrian 提供了一些實用建議。儘管政府已經讓外籍人士來台更為容易，但他強調經驗可能因學校而異。他鼓勵新手不要因第一份工作不適合而氣餒，並提醒他們要保持堅持，直到找到合適的機會。

台灣教育產業現況

台灣的學生人數從2013年的4,859,558人下降到2023年的4,042,175人，過去十年的歷史數據顯示學生人數呈穩定下降趨勢，這也與全國普遍存在的出生率下降相一致。

近年來，台灣的出生率急劇下降，2023年的新生兒人數降至約135,570人，創歷史新低。過去五年這一趨勢持續穩定下降。

隨著學生人數減少，學校不得不在人口較少的地區關閉或合併，以維持效率。這引發了教師對於可能出現過剩的擔憂。

過去十年，台灣的教師人數經歷了顯著的波動，反映了教育領域的變化。從2014年到2017年，教師人數急劇下降，從約303,113人減少到293,554人。這一下降與學生人數減少密切相關，而學生人數的減少則受到台灣持續低出生率和學校入學人數下降的影響，導致教師需求減少。

然而，自2017年起，這一趨勢開始逆轉，教師人數穩步增加。到2023年，教師總數回升至303,963人以上，顯示出顯著的復甦。這一增長可歸因於台灣的教育改革及提升教學品質的努力，例如縮減班級規模，並更注重 STEM 和英語等專業學科。此外，台灣對英語能力的重視也促使外籍教師需求增加，以幫助學生提高全球競爭力。

教師人數的回升顯示出一項策略性舉措，即在學生人口減少的情況下仍能維持高品質的教育。雖然城市地區受益於更好的資源和人員配置，但偏遠地區的學校在留住教師方面仍面臨挑戰。

台灣各地學校的分布顯示出顯著的區域差異，例如新北市和台北市等城市中心共擁有多達2,500所學校，而偏遠地區，特別是東部和中部地區，學校數量僅約200至300所。這種差異突顯出人口較少地區所面臨的挑戰，因為學生人數較少導致教育設施的數量不足。

這幅地圖反映了城鄉之間的差距，顯示城市地區在學校和教育資源方面相對完善，而農村社區可能在教育機會的可及性和公平分配上面臨困難。解決這些不平衡需要針對性的政策、基礎設施投資以及支持資源不足地區教育的策略，確保所有學生無論地區差異，都能獲得高品質的教育。

台灣英語教學產業的未來

展望未來，Adrian 認為英語教學是一個將持續發展的行業。由於其入門門檻相對較低，該行業一直保持穩定，而他相信台灣對英語能力的重視在短期內不會減弱。這一點也得到了政府努力提升全國英語能力以增強全球競爭力的支持。

儘管出生率下降及入學學生減少，但教育系統的政府改革維持了對教師的需求，顯示出積極且健康的趨勢。台灣政府已將英語作為長期教育戰略的一部分，通過「2030雙語國家政策」等計畫，目標是將台灣轉型為一個雙語國家。這確保了英語教學在未來數年內仍然具有重要性並持續需求。

英語教學產業也可能隨著學校整合先進的學習方法和數位工具來提升語言教育而不斷演變。這個行業將繼續成為外國人來台工作的重要入門途徑，不僅提供專業發展的機會，還讓他們有機會體驗文化交流與個人成長。

對 Adrian 而言，在台灣教英語遠不僅僅是一份工作，更是一段文化探索、個人成長和職業挑戰的旅程。

For many people looking to work abroad, Taiwan offers a mix of vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and unique professional opportunities. We have interviewed Adrian Moore, an Australian English teacher, who shares what it’s like to live and teach in Taiwan, why he came, what he’s learned, and how he’s adjusted to life on this fascinating island.

Why Taiwan?

Adrian's journey began with a deep love for language and culture and a desire to fully immerse himself in learning Chinese. Taiwan stood out as the ideal destination, offering not just the opportunity to study the language but also its unique blend of mountains, sea, politics, and culture. A visit before the pandemic left a lasting impression, solidifying his desire to return.

"I wanted to learn Chinese in a place where I could fully immerse myself in it. Taiwan seemed perfect not only for the language but also for its beautiful mix of mountain and sea, politics, and culture."

However, when COVID-19 struck, relocating became far more complicated. The only way to remain in Taiwan during the pandemic was through an employment contract, and teaching English emerged as the most accessible option.

“The only way to stay on the island during the pandemic was with an employment contract, so teaching English was the easiest choice.”

Unexpected Cultural Differences

Living in Taiwan brought some unexpected cultural insights for Adrian. He quickly noticed how Taiwanese culture contrasts sharply with the individualism of the West. People in Taiwan often prefer to avoid standing out, a mindset that is quite the opposite of Western norms. This cultural difference has significantly influenced how Adrian interacts with both his students and colleagues, fostering a newfound appreciation for the Taiwanese way of approaching life and relationships.

"Taiwanese culture is really different from the individualism of the West.”

Teaching Taiwanese students has been both rewarding and challenging for Adrian. In Western education, creativity and independent thinking are often encouraged, but he noticed that many Taiwanese students struggle with open-ended thinking and creative expression. This challenge has made his teaching role even more meaningful, as he works to inspire his students to take small creative risks and find new ways to express themselves, fostering their confidence and curiosity along the way.

“In Western education, students are often pushed to be creative and think independently but here, kids can struggle with open-ended thinking and creativity.”

Navigating the Language Barrier

Adjusting to day-to-day life in Taiwan hasn’t been without its challenges for Adrian. Outside of Taipei, the limited availability of English services makes routine tasks like banking or dealing with government offices more difficult. Navigating government websites, accessing healthcare, or simply finding the right assistance can be particularly challenging without fluent Mandarin. Despite these obstacles, Adrian has found that patience and a willingness to learn are essential in overcoming these hurdles and adapting to life in Taiwan.

“Browsing government websites, getting health care, or even finding the right help can be a real challenge without fluent Mandarin.”

For anyone considering a move to teach in Taiwan, Adrian offers practical advice. While the government has made it easier for foreigners to come to the island, he emphasizes that experiences can vary widely depending on the school. He encourages newcomers not to get discouraged if their first job isn’t the right fit, reminding them to stay persistent and keep searching until they find the right opportunity.

Education Industry in Taiwan

The amount of students in Taiwan has dropped from 4,859,558 in 2013 to just over 4,042,175 in 2023, historical data from the past 10 years signals a steady decrease of students being present at schools which is also backed with the declining birth rate that’s prevalent across the country.

Taiwan has seen a sharp decline in birth rates in recent years, with the number of births falling to a record low of approximately 135,570 in 2023. This downward trend has persisted steadily over the past five years.

In response to the decrease of students, schools are forced to be closed down to be merged with other schools in less populated areas to maintain efficiency. This concerns teachers where there could be a scenario of teacher surplus.

Over the past decade, the number of teachers in Taiwan has experienced significant fluctuations, reflecting shifts within the education sector. From 2014 to 2017, the number of teachers dropped sharply, falling from approximately 303,113 to 293,554. This decline correlates with the decrease in the student population, driven by Taiwan’s persistently low birth rates and declining school enrollments, which reduced the immediate demand for teachers.

However, starting in 2017, the trend began to reverse, and the number of teachers steadily increased. By 2023, the count had returned to over 303,963, marking a remarkable recovery. This growth can be attributed to Taiwan’s educational reforms and efforts to enhance teaching quality, such as reducing class sizes and placing a greater focus on specialized subjects like STEM and English. Additionally, Taiwan's emphasis on English proficiency has led to a growing demand for foreign teachers to help prepare students for global competitiveness.

The rebound in teacher numbers highlights a strategic move to maintain high-quality education despite a shrinking student population. While urban areas benefit from better resources and staffing, rural schools still face challenges in retaining educators.

The distribution of schools across Taiwan reveals significant regional disparities with some urban centers such as New Taipei and Taipei hosting up to 2,500 schools combined, while more rural regions particularly in eastern and central Taiwan host around 200-300 schools. This disparity highlights the challenges faced by less populated regions where lower student numbers result in fewer educational facilities.

This map represents the urban-rural divide indicating that urban areas are well-served with schools and educational resources, rural communities may struggle with accessibility and equitable distribution of education opportunities. Addressing these imbalances will require targeted policies, investment in infrastructure, and strategies to support education in under-resourced regions, ensuring that all students, regardless of location, have access to quality education.

Future of English Teaching Industry In Taiwan

Looking ahead, Adrian sees English teaching as an industry that is here to stay. Its accessibility has kept the industry stable, and Adrian believes Taiwan’s focus on English proficiency will not fade anytime soon. This is further supported by the government’s efforts to improve English-speaking skills across the country to enhance global competitiveness.

Despite declining birth rates and fewer students entering schools, government reforms in the education system have sustained the demand for teachers, indicating a positive and healthy trend. Taiwan's government has prioritized English as part of its long-term education strategy, with initiatives like the Bilingual 2030 Policy, aimed at transforming the country into a bilingual nation. This ensures that English teaching will remain relevant and in demand for years to come.

The English teaching industry is also likely to evolve as schools integrate advanced learning methods and digital tools to enhance language education. This sector will continue to serve as an important entry point for foreigners looking to work in Taiwan, offering not only professional opportunities but also the chance to experience cultural exchange and personal growth.

For Adrian, teaching English in Taiwan has been much more than just a job. It has been a journey of cultural discovery, personal growth, and professional challenge.

How does a restaurant introduce overseas cuisine to a new region while adapting it to local tastes? Check In Taipei, a Hong Kong-based restaurant serving contemporary Taiwanese cuisine, stands out by doing things differently. Jacky, the owner of Check In Taipei, shares the story of its beginnings and the journey to success.

Jacky’s interest in cooking began during his final year at university in Canada. After graduating, he worked various jobs in Hong Kong before deciding to shift careers. Check In Taipei originally belonged to his friends, and Jacky helped them manage it. However, as the business began to struggle, Jacky decided to take over and try to turn things around.

“The first couple years was a headache because nothing was working.” - Jacky

The first three years were a steep learning curve for Jacky, as his lack of restaurant management experience posed significant challenges. The turning point came when he made bold changes to ensure the business's sustainability.

To this date Jacky has opened multiple branches of Check in Taipei around Hong Kong in locations such as:

1. Yuen Long

2. Causeway Bay

3. Tsim Sha Tsui

Big Turning Point

After four years of dedication and hard work, Jacky finally found the formula for success, transforming Check In Taipei into a thriving establishment. Jacky pointed out some key factors on what turn the tides for his business some of them are:

1. Price

   Customers often compared menu prices between Taiwan and Hong Kong. Jacky decided to make the food more affordable, ensuring it appealed to a broader audience.

2. Design

   Unlike most Taiwanese restaurants in Hong Kong, which recreate a night market vibe, Check In Taipei offers a modern, contemporary experience, reflected in both its menu and ambiance.

3. Taste

   While embracing a modern approach, Jacky ensured the authentic flavors of Taiwanese cuisine were preserved. He went a step further by offering unique condiments, such as being the only restaurant in Hong Kong to serve beef fat at the table.

   

   One example is the Beef Noodle Soup, which he elevated by incorporating a cut of beef steak to enhance its taste and texture. Innovations like this, along with creative menu upgrades, are what truly distinguish Check In Taipei from its competitors.

Despite these changes, Jacky credits the launch of their mochi dessert as the game-changer. Inspired by a mochi shop in Tamsui, Taiwan, this dessert features a tapioca flour-based outer layer that is chewy like traditional mochi but melts in seconds. Its uniqueness brought long lines of customers and became a defining feature of the restaurant’s success.

“It was the first time where we would see lines of customers waiting.“ - Jacky

Why Taiwanese Cuisine

Jacky’s decision to serve Taiwanese cuisine was deeply influenced by his upbringing. Growing up in Canada, he often visited cafes serving Taiwanese dishes with his friends. These experiences left a lasting impression, and when it came time to open his own restaurant, Taiwanese cuisine was the natural choice. It represented both a connection to his past and a way to share the flavors he had grown to love with a wider audience.

Taiwanese Cuisine in Hong Kong is particularly famous for its iconic street foods. Many Taiwanese restaurants in the city aim to recreate the vibrant ambiance of a night market, offering menus that feature popular dishes such as:

1. Bubble Tea (Boba)

   A sweet tea-based drink with chewy tapioca pearls, available in various flavors and milk or fruit options.

2. Beef Noodles

   A comforting dish of tender beef, chewy noodles, and a savory, aromatic broth. A very popular dish among Taiwanese.

3. Taiwanese Fried Chicken

   Crispy, juicy fried chicken seasoned with five-spice powder, salt, and pepper, often served as a street food snack. It is commonly found in night markets.

4. Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan)

   A flavorful bowl of rice topped with slow-cooked minced pork in a soy-based sauce. A quick and affordable choice for a quick meal.

5. Oyster Omelets

   A mix of fresh oysters, eggs, and tapioca starch, pan-fried and topped with a sweet-savory sauce. This cuisine often paired with Lu Rou Fan.

6. Stinky Tofu

   Fermented tofu, deep-fried and served with pickled vegetables and chili sauce for a bold, acquired flavor.

Like many places, Hong Kong was heavily impacted by the global COVID-19 pandemic, with a significant drop in visitors from Taiwan. However, data shows a strong recovery, with over 1 million Taiwanese visitors recorded from the start of 2024 through October.

While this may not directly reflect the core dining audience at Check In Taipei, it offers insight into its potential customer base, particularly since Taiwanese residents in Hong Kong are noted as a key target demographic. This shows the immense potential for both Taiwanese cuisine and culture to flourish in Hong Kong.

What’s on the Menu

Check In Taipei offers a range of traditional Taiwanese dishes, including favorites like Lu Rou Fan and Dan Bing. But Jacky mentioned one dish that particularly stands out, which is the Taiwanese Beef Noodles. Instead of the usual large bowl, they’ve taken a different approach, serving it with modern plating to give customers a fresh and unique dining experience.

The drinks menu is just as impressive, with a variety of options from their popular milk series to creative cocktails. One highlight is their tea-infused spirits, where they use tea leaves to create unique flavors like Oolong Vodka and Tie Guan Yin Gin. It’s a clever way to blend traditional Taiwanese elements with something unexpected and modern.

Check In Taipei’s wide selection of Taiwanese dishes has made it a favorite among Taiwanese living in Hong Kong. Jacky shares that while some Taiwanese customers were initially skeptical, they became regulars after experiencing the authentic flavors of the food.

Wrapping Up

One of Jacky’s proudest achievements with Check In Taipei has been watching the brand grow and gain recognition, not just from locals but also from Taiwanese expats living in Hong Kong. For him, it’s not just about the success, it’s about seeing his vision come to life and knowing that people connect with what he’s created. This is especially meaningful given how tough the early years were, with constant struggles and uncertainty. Turning those challenges around and building something lasting has been incredibly rewarding.

Jacky is also deeply passionate about changing how people view Taiwanese cuisine. He wants customers to see it as more than just night market snacks or street food. At Check In Taipei, he focuses on showing a more refined side of Taiwanese flavors, blending tradition with modern presentation and techniques. This approach not only sets the restaurant apart but also gives diners a chance to experience a different, more nuanced take on the food.

For Jacky, it’s about more than just serving great dishes, it’s about creating an experience that stays with people. From the modern plating of their beef noodles to their unique tea-infused cocktails, he wants every detail to reflect the richness and creativity of Taiwanese culture. It’s this deeper connection that makes all the hard work worthwhile.

• Taiwan's location and geography make it highly vulnerable to frequent typhoons, increasing the risk of landslides and flooding, especially in the eastern regions.

• Economic Damage: Typhoons cause significant agricultural and manufacturing losses in Taiwan, disrupting industries and burdening supply chains with costly repairs.

• Infrastructure Challenges: Taiwan's steep terrain and heavy rains cause frequent landslides and flooding, damaging infrastructure, while coastal areas face storm surges and power disruptions.

• Loss of Life: Despite preparedness, typhoons still cause deaths from landslides and floods, with remote regions remaining at higher risk despite early warnings and evacuations.

Changing Patterns in Typhoon Intensity Over the Decades

1950s to Early 1960s: The Era of Intense Storms

• High number of typhoons, with over 14 storms in some years.

• Many storms were of higher intensity, likely due to favorable oceanic and atmospheric conditions.

1960s to 1980s: A Noticeable Decline

• Decline in both the frequency and intensity of typhoons.

• Shift from higher to more moderate and lower intensity storms, possibly due to changing climate patterns.

1990s to 2010s: A More Even Spread

• Typhoon activity became more balanced with moderate and lower intensity storms.

• Some higher intensity storms returned in the late 1990s but remained less frequent than in earlier decades.

Recent Years

• Continued decline in the number of typhoons, with most being moderate or lower intensity.

• Fewer high-intensity storms, likely due to changing environmental factors such as ocean temperatures.

Annual Typhoon Wind Speed

• 1950s to early 1980s: High and fluctuating wind speeds, averaging between 45-55 km/h, with a peak at 65 km/h in the early 1980s.

• 1980s to 2000: Gradual decline in average wind speeds, ranging between 35-50 km/h, with smaller fluctuations.

• 2000 to 2020: Stabilization of wind speeds, generally remaining between 30-45 km/h, with fewer extreme spikes.

• 2020 onwards: Sudden and sharp spike in wind speeds, peaking again at 65 km/h, followed by a dip and another rise, showing increased variability.

Annual Typhoon Wind Speed Pattern

• The average typhoon wind speed is observed to be moving at a cyclical pattern with higher variability in recent years.

• With the average wind speed reaching a recent high, it is expected for it to drop down and ease toward the next couple years.

Source

• https://rdc28.cwa.gov.tw/TDB/ - Taiwan Typhoon Database

The Taiwan Employment Gold Card is specifically catered to attract foreign professionals in fields like Science, Technology, Economics, and more to be able to work freely in Taiwan for 1-3 years which is renewable, while also having no restrictions when traveling in and out of Taiwan during the card’s validity.

Gold Card holders can also receive the benefit of lower tax rates given they meet the requirements, while having no working restrictions, and an option to bring their spouse and children to Taiwan.

The Taiwan Employment Gold Card program was launched in 2018 as part of Taiwan’s efforts to address skill shortages by attracting international talent to boost its economy. This program is a part of the “Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals” that was created with the main mission of creating an attractive environment for foreign professionals to live and work in Taiwan.

The Gold Card simplifies the visa process by combining work permit, residence permit, and re-entry permit into one single card. Professional sectors that are considered for Gold Card applications are:

1. Science & Technology

   Professionals with expertise in scientific research, technology innovation, and high-tech industries.

2. Economy

   Experts in business, economics, and trade. Including entrepreneurs and business professionals who can contribute to Taiwan’s economic growth.

3. Education

   Includes academics, educators, and professionals who can support Taiwan’s educational development and innovation.

4. Culture and Arts

   Individuals in creative industries like fine arts, music, performance, and cultural heritage, contributing to Taiwan’s cultural landscape.

5. Sport

   This category includes athletes, coaches, and sports professionals who can contribute to Taiwan’s sports development.

6. Finance

   Professionals in finance, investment, and banking, especially individuals with the expertise in areas like fintech and international finance.

7. Law

   Legal professionals such as lawyers and experts in international law and arbitration that contribute to Taiwan's legal sector.

8. Architectural Design

   Architects, urban planners, and design professionals, supporting infrastructure and creative design in Taiwan.

9. National Defense

   Specialists in military technology, cybersecurity, and other defense-related fields to further advancing Taiwan’s military tactical advantage.

10. Cross-field

    This sector covers professionals whose work spans into multiple industries whilst contributing to various sectors.

11. Digital

    The digital professionals category was recently added in 2023 with a more specific focus on individuals with expertise in AI, cybersecurity, blockchain and cryptocurrency.

Taiwan Employment Gold Card Application Process

In total, the application process from start to finish generally takes between 30 to 70 days. The process of applying for Taiwan's Employment Gold Card is relatively straightforward but involves several key steps:

Eligibility Check

The first step is determining if you qualify, which can be done quickly through the Taiwan Gold Card portal. This allows applicants to see if their professional background aligns with one of the accepted fields, such as Science & Technology, Economy, or Education.

Submitting the Online Application

The online application is user-friendly and typically takes between 1 to 2 hours to complete, depending on how quickly you can gather the necessary documents, such as proof of qualifications or salary.

Skill Assessment and Review

Once submitted, the application undergoes a review process that generally takes 30 to 60 days. If additional documentation is required, this could extend the timeline. Applicants are advised to ensure their documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays​.

Approval Notification

After the assessment is complete, applicants will be notified whether their application has been approved. If all documents are in order, this usually happens within the 30 to 60 day window.

Card Collection

Once approved, you can choose to pick up your Gold Card at an immigration office or have it mailed. This process typically takes an additional 7 to 10 days, depending on your chosen method​.

Taiwan Employment Gold Card Trends Analysis

Top 3 Sectors

Currently the Taiwan Employment Gold Card holders are mainly dominated by professionals in the economy, science & technology, and education sector. The reason behind this is also caused by the Taiwanese government policies that focus on developing these industries. The holder distribution of the gold card holders as of August 2024 are the following:

1. Economy: 2,883

2. Science & Technology: 1,388

3. Education: 1,250

4. Digital: 543

5. Finance: 434

6. Culture and Arts: 419

7. Cross-field: 203

8. Architectural Design: 37

9. National Defense: 18

10. Law: 12

11. Sport: 11

Economy

Taiwan has positioned itself as a key player in finance, trade, and business, with a strong emphasis on the Five-Plus-Two Innovative Industries and Six Core Strategic Industries. This has led to a high demand for professionals in areas like fintech, global trade, and advanced manufacturing, all crucial sectors to keep Taiwan competitive in the global market. The government's strategic focus on these areas is aimed at strengthening Taiwan's economy and ensuring sustainable growth.

Science & Technology

As a world leader in semiconductors and technology innovation, Taiwan naturally attracts professionals in science and technology. The government is heavily focused on bringing in talent for sectors like artificial intelligence (AI), cybersecurity, and green energy. This helps maintain Taiwan's reputation as a tech powerhouse and supports its efforts to stay at the forefront of global tech advancements.

Education

Taiwan has been making significant efforts to enhance its educational infrastructure and create partnerships with leading universities worldwide. By opening doors to academics and research experts, Taiwan aims to elevate its educational standards and attract foreign professionals in education. The focus is on building high-quality education and fostering a more international academic community within Taiwan.

As of August 2024 there are 7,198 Taiwan Gold Cards active and 11,017 Taiwan Gold Cards issued since February 2018. To find out meaningful information we have gathered some data from the Taiwan Gold Card Office announcements regarding the number of valid cards and in each industry per month from September 2021-September 2024 and the amount of cards issued for every year from the year 2018-2024.

As of today, Taiwan has issued the most Taiwan Employment Gold Cards in the year 2022 with a record of 2,644 cards issued that year. This could be caused by the Legislative Yuan amending new rules regarding to the foreign professionals act which consisted of:

1. Increasing flexibility for the recognition of foreign special professionals.

2. Vying for graduates of the world’s top universities to come to work in Taiwan.

3. Loosening regulations for foreign nationals’ permanent residency applications.

4. Enhancing tax preference and social security measures.

These changes make Taiwan a more attractive place for foreign professionals to continue their career. The addition of new mechanisms that enables the recognition of talent in new industries and cross-disciplinary fields and the removal of the two-year work experience requirement for graduates from the world’s top universities further lowers down the qualification needed for foreign professionals to obtain the Taiwan Employment Gold Card.

The 2019-2020 Surge

The sudden surge of Gold Cards issued between the year 2019-2020 surge was mainly due to the amount of cards issued to the professionals in the Economy sector. The number of card holders from the Economy sector rose from 212 to 1045. This rapid increase was driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan’s relatively stable economy and effective pandemic management made it an attractive destination for professionals in finance, investment, and entrepreneurship.

The number of valid Taiwan Employment Gold Cards keeps on increasing throughout the year 2021-2024. There was a significant increase in valid cards in the year 2021-2022 which correlates with the data showing the amount of cards issued during 2021-2022 was reaching an all-time highs due to less requirements needed and more benefits given for foreign professionals to obtain the Taiwan Employment Gold Card.

It is worth pointing out that the amount of valid cards is stagnating going forward to late-2023 to early-2024. The amount of valid cards are starting to pick up more traction recently starting from mid-2024. This stagnation is caused by many different factors being:

1. Global Economic Downturn and Uncertainty

2. Post-Pandemic Adjustments

3. Increased Competition from Other Countries

In 2022, the global economy faced significant challenges like rising inflation, fears of a recession, and instability in key markets. These issues led to more cautious decision-making, with fewer foreign professionals willing to relocate to places like Taiwan due to uncertainties surrounding job security and global mobility. This reduced the overall movement of talent across borders, as many professionals opted to stay put or wait for more stable conditions before considering relocation.

The Stagnation of Taiwan Gold Card Holders

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Taiwan gained a reputation as a safe and stable destination, which drew many professionals seeking refuge from the global crisis. However, as the pandemic eased and countries worldwide lifted restrictions, some of these professionals opted to return home or pursue new opportunities elsewhere.

Additionally, Taiwan now faces increasing competition from other countries offering attractive programs to draw in foreign talent. For instance, nations like Singapore and several European countries have launched or enhanced digital nomad visas and other initiatives, providing more flexible work and residency options. This has led to a potential shift in interest away from Taiwan’s Gold Card program, as professionals explore these alternatives.

These factors severely impact the Economy and Science & Technology sector of gold card holders with them stagnating and even experiencing decline in the amount of holders.

Forecast and Future Outlook

Taiwan’s Employment Gold Card is likely to remain an attractive option for professionals in fields like technology, finance, and green energy, especially as the country anticipates a labor shortage of 350,000 workers by 2028. With a focus on AI and semiconductors, Taiwan’s push for innovation creates a strong demand for foreign talent.

However, Taiwan faces stiff competition from places like Singapore and South Korea, which offer similar talent programs. In response, Taiwan is rolling out new initiatives like the Global Elite Card and Digital Nomad Visa, aimed at making it easier for professionals to settle long-term.

Though housing costs and geopolitical concerns present some challenges, Taiwan’s continuous policy improvements position the Gold Card for steady growth as it looks to attract more international talent.

References

• "Taiwan Gold Card Information" from Taiwan Gold Card Official Site.

• "Taiwan Employment Gold Card Portal" from National Immigration Agency.

• "Foreign Professionals Urged to Use Taiwan Gold Card Scheme" from Taiwan News.

• "Taiwan's Gold Card Scheme Sees Surge in Applicants" from Taiwan News.

• "Taiwan's New 'Employment Gold Card' to Attract Foreign Professionals" from Taiwan News.

• "Taiwan's Gold Card Scheme Overview" from European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan (ECCT).

• "Taiwan Gold Card Application FAQ" from Taiwan Gold Card FAQ.

• "Taiwan Gold Card Reaches New Milestones" from Taiwan News.