Taiwanology

Pundits and policymakers in the US and Europe are increasingly worried that, as China's economy slows down, China’s excess manufacturing capacity might overflow the world with cheap imports, ranging from steel, solar panels, to electric cars. Moreover, what's looming on the horizon are legacy semiconductors. How worried should we be? What can be done to mitigate the impact of Chinese overcapacity? 5:00 - In global trade, we have seen "China shock" before. What's different this time? 7:27 - The three major impacts brought by the Chinese overcapacity 8:55 - Will there be Chinese overcapacity in semiconductors? 15:25 - Why is it unlikely for cheap EVs to flood Taiwan streets? 21:36 - What would be the impacts if China increases domestic chip production and utilization? Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Silva Shih, China editor, CommonWealth Magazine Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read more about how China's overcapacity impacts world economy: https://english.cw.com.tw/article/article.action?id=3670 ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

An ETF allows an investor to invest in a basket of different investments. For some reason, high dividend ETF products have been all the rage in Taiwan in recent years. According to J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Taiwan's ETF asset size saw the highest in the world, growing 23-fold over the past five years. Why are Taiwanese investors so obsessed with high dividend ETFs? What does it tell us about Taiwan’s investment environment? Our money correspondent Lisa Lin helps us unpack this phenomenon. 6:13 - How popular is high-dividend ETF in Taiwan? 10:01 - Why do Taiwanese investors love this kind of ETF? 19:20 - Why are Taiwan's real estate prices so high? 23:45 - How to introduce more products for Taiwanese to invest in Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Lisa Lin, Finance Correspondent, CommonWealth Magazine Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read more about Taiwan's high-dividend ETF craze: https://bit.ly/3vLxACQ ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

With an aging population and the world's lowest birth rate, Taiwan is grappling with a demographic imbalance that threatens its economic vitality. Join us as we explore why revamping immigration regulations to attract international talent is crucial now. To delve deep into this issue, we talk with David Chang, who has been championing more inclusion for international citizens in Taiwan. Find out why he thinks Taiwan also needs to ease the regulations for dual citizenship. 12:00 - Why Taiwan needs an immigration policy 21:01 - Wait, only Japanese immigrants were eligible for disability benefits? 25:08 - Taiwan's need to streamline its citizenship application process 30:00 - What the response to Indian migrant workers said about Taiwan 33:03 - Taiwan's growing digital nomadism Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: David Chang, Founder & Secretary-general of Crossroads（社團法人台灣全球連結發展協會） Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read more about Taiwan's immigration issue: https://bit.ly/3Px1P71 ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

On February 24th, Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing (JASM) inaugurated its state-of-the-art facility in Kumamoto, marking a pivotal moment in Japan's semiconductor landscape. This milestone is underscored by several remarkable achievements: JASM secured the highest subsidies ever granted by the Japanese government, completed construction in a record-breaking timeframe of under two years, and is poised to lead Japan in producing cutting-edge semiconductor chips. This venture holds immense significance as it raises the question: Can it breathe new life into Japan's somewhat dormant semiconductor industry? 6:10 - Why did TSMC choose to be in Kumamoto? 7:30 - What are the lives like for the engineers? 10:00 - What contributed to the decline of Japan's chip industry? 14:25 - Why TSMC fabs in Arizona and Kumamoto experience different speed 17:40 - Who will be JASM's major customers? Host: Kwangyin Liu Guests: Yixuan Lin, CommonWealth reporter Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read more about the Japan-Taiwan chip alliance: https://english.cw.com.tw/article/article.action?id=3637 ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw ＊Listen to the Japanese song on semiconductors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fZ3UEgPgXqs 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

In the US, Shein was the most downloaded fashion app in 2022. Influencers showcase "Shein hauls" featuring bags of clothing at unbelievably low prices, like 3-dollar tops or 5-dollar jeans. How can Shein be so cheap? And at what cost? A group of CommonWealth reporters travelled to the shouthern Chinese city of Guanzhou, where thousands of small workshops churn out new styles quickly each week. What they saw and hear blew their mind. 4:04 - Why is Shein so popular among American teens? 7:00 - How does Shein compete with Zara? 10:20 - How Shein achieved "ultra-fast fasion" 12:24 - What the unique "urban villages" has to do with Shein's cheapness 16:11 - What's the working condition like in the workshops? 19:27 - Shein's lesson for Taiwan's supply chain Host: Kwangyin Liu Guests: Ashley Lo, David Shen, Charo Wu, CommonWealth reporters Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read more about Shein: https://english.cw.com.tw/article/article.action?id=3625 ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

In this episode, we unravel the intricacies of Taiwan's economy, spotlighting the indispensable role played by migrant workers—1 in 6 factory workers in Taiwan falls into this category. As the impending EU human rights due diligence legislation looms, we turn our attention to Taiwan's distinctive practice of allowing monthly fees on migrant workers by brokers. In a shifting landscape where legal compliance is no longer the sole benchmark, we explore the imperative for Taiwanese companies to elevate their practices. Join us as we delve into the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead and explore the question: will there be a day when migrant workers in Taiwan enjoy the same rights as its workers? 7:40 - How Bonny's UN work led her to the study of labor law 13:30 - Why is Taiwan's migrant worker practices considered to have a high risk of forced labor? 19:00 - Why is the "monthly service fees" so controversial? 21:30 - What impacts will the incoming EU human rights due diligence law on the global supply chain? 33:40 - What can Taiwanese companies do to lower their risks of forced labor? Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Bonny Ling, Executive Director at Work Better Innovations & Senior Fellow at Uni Nottingham Taiwan Research Hub Producers: Weiru Wang, Chiahsuan Lee ＊Read more in-depth stories about Taiwan's migrant workers: https://bit.ly/47FDuSU ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

Amidst the turbulence of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong over the past few years, a profound exodus has unfolded, with over 200,000 Hong Kong residents seeking refuge elsewhere. Among them, approximately 20,000 have found solace in Taiwan, embracing it as their sanctuary. Leaving behind a familiar life is undoubtedly challenging, but forging a new path in a foreign land presents its own set of trials. In this enlightening conversation, brought to you in collaboration with TaiwanPlus, we delve into the aspirations, hopes, and dreams of two remarkable members of the Hong Kong diaspora – Kacey Wong and Shirley Leung. Join us as we explore their courageous journey and the inspiring narratives that unfold beyond the tumultuous events in Hong Kong. Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Kacey Wong, visual artist Shirley Leung, founder of Photon Media David Kao, producer of TaiwanPlus Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read more in-depth stories about Taiwan: https://english.cw.com.tw/ ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

In two weeks, Taiwan is headed to the polls. The challenges are manifold: from escalating geopolitical tensions and the deepening rivalry between the United States and China, to limited upward social mobility. What truly hangs in the balance, and what far-reaching implications might the impending results hold? Wen-ti Sung, an Atlantic Council fellow and a Australian National University lecturer, joined us for a discussion. 06:32 - What do the three candidates represent? 13:00 - How do their China strategies differ? 16:02 - The two main takeaways from the polling numbers 25:50 - How important are the swing voters? 30:30 - How successful are Chinese economic coercion tactics? Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Wen-Ti Sung（宋文笛）, nonresident fellow with the Atlantic Council, and lecturer in Australian National University Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read about Taiwan's upcoming election: https://english.cw.com.tw/ ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

Scamming has transcended boundaries and borders. In today's episode, we talk with a finance reporter about a growing trend in Taiwan: bankers and engineers are starting to play key roles in sophiscated scams, and they don't even feel like criminals. 05:09 - How much money does Taiwan loss to scamming each year? 07:08 - When a bank teller becomes a fraud group accomplice 11:18 - What makes Taiwan's situation unique? 15:11 - The engineers who don't think they are committing crimes 19:00 - What can the government do about this? Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Jamie Yang Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Read about Taiwan's white-collar fraud problems: https://bit.ly/47TlsNW ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

Welcome to a special episode of Taiwanology! In the midst of the UN climate conference, COP28, unfolding in Dubai, our host takes center stage as a dedicated climate reporter. Join us as we explore the intricate world of climate reporting, unravel the challenges of greenwashing, and dissect the elements that define exceptional climate journalism. In this episode, Kwangyin sheds light on Taiwan's crucial role in the global climate conversation. Contrary to popular belief, Taiwan's impact is more significant than meets the eye. As we navigate through the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of maintaining hope in the face of the climate emergency, underscoring the belief that every individual can contribute to drawing attention and inspiring action. This episode is a collaborative effort with "The Switch - Not Just Another Podcast," originally airing on Nov. 7. For those who prefer a visual experience, the entire episode is available on YouTube. Host: Kristina Hagström-Ilievska Guest: Kwangyin Liu Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊Tune in at: https://bit.ly/3T0bDJi ＊For more insight on Taiwan's climate battles, visit: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

In this episode, we chat with Elaine Huang from CommonWealth about TSMC's ambitious chip manufacturing hub in Phoenix, Arizona. We explore the project's challenges, from construction delays to labor disputes, and address concerns such as potential water shortages raised by a local alfalfa farmer. Our conversation also touches on TSMC's strategies moving forward amidst the labor controversy. Can planning mitigate the climate change risks? And how quickly does TSMC have to adapt to become a truly international company? 06:25 - Why is TSMC building a fab in the US? 14:15 - An anfalfa farmer's worry over future water shortages 24:00 - The view from Phoenix water authorities 27:14 - How the labor disputes can be resolved Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Elaine Huang, Senior Writer of CommonWealth Magazine Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

There's been a shift in the restructuring of the global supply chain, in the wake of a trend to derisk from China for manufactured goods. Vietnam is at the heart of this transformation, becoming a busy hub where companies across the globe flock to. Meanwhile, Vietnam has its own ambitions of making electric cars and scooters. Silva Shih had an exclusive inside look at VinFast's EV assembly line and the founder of Selex Motors. What are their ambitions and how can Taiwan tap this opportunity? 05:40 - Vietnam's significance in the "friendshoring" trend 11:40 - Will Vietnam replace China's supply chain? 15:38 - Silva's impression at the Vinfast factory 26:25 - The aspirations of young Vietnamese Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Silva Shih, Managing Editor of CommonWealth Magazine Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

Whether you love him or hate him, Elon Musk is impossible to ignore. Walter Isaacson should show, because he had spent two years on his side. In this special episode, my colleagues Charo and Yishan talked to Isaacson, the author of the most comprehensive biography on Elon Musk so far. In September, CommonWealth Magazine published the traditional Chinese version of the biography in Taiwan. In the interview, he talked about how Musk thinks about rules, his controversial stance on China and Taiwan, and why his mother fears that he would one day become his father. Hosts: Kwangyin Liu, Charo Wu, Yishan Chen Guest: Walter Isaacson, author of Elon Musk's biography, Professor of History at Tulane University Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

Taiwan doesn’t just make semicondictor chips, it also puts together the Nikes, New Balances, Adidas shoes on your feet. Over 70% of Nikes and 90% of New Balance shoes are made by Taiwan companies. Ever sported gear from Puma, New Balance, Mizuno, or On Running? There's a high chance they came from Diamond Group's factories. Each year, they roll out a whopping 35 million pairs of sports shoes. Hear from the two CEOs from the Diamond Group to find out why Taiwan is so good at making shoes. 10:40 - Why Diamond Group has factories in 6 different countries 13:20 - Why India will be making most of the Nike shoes very soon 14:14 - It takes a village to make a pair of running shoes 18:43 - Why Taiwan remains indispensable for the largest shoemakers 24:30 - How Taiwan shoemakers outsmart Korean & Chinese competitors Host: Kwangyin Liu Guests: Louis Chen 陳立宗, CEO of Diamond Group Bang Lin 林邦彥, Vice Chairman of Diamond Group & CEO of Cortina Global Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

As we focus on the upcoming Taiwan presidential election in January 2024, the scene is surely getting crowded. Besides DPP's Lai Ching-te, KMT's Hou You-yi and Ko Wen-je representing the Taiwan People’s Party, Terry Gou, the founder of Foxconn, also joined the race. With geopolitical tensions rising, some are calling this election the most pivotal one for Taiwan's destiny. What’s really at stake? Why is that the candidates all seem to need to win trust from the US? And what will the challenges be for the next leader? 11:35 - What makes the upcoming election so pivotal for Taiwan? 14:48 - The role Beijing plays in Taiwan's past presidential elections 19:01 - What American endorsement means for the candidates Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Kharis Templeman, Hoover Institution Research Fellow at Stanford University Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

The flavors of Taiwan, including mini puffs, bubble tea and dry noodles, are gaining popularity in the US and Europe. In this delicious episode, we talk to the mochi master, Alvin Huang from Royal Family Foods, which is selling 1.5 million mochis a day. Why is this dessert captivating Gen Z in over 50 countries? Why is mochi Taiwanese and international at the same time? 15:45 - Who are the Americans buying mochis? 16:25 - Collaboration with Haagen-Dazs 21:25 - The birth of "bubble tea mochi" Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Alvin Huang, Director of Sales and Marketing, Royal Family Food Company Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

While the Taiwan issue is often seen through a lens of cross-strait conflicts, how does it impact Taiwan’s economy and interactions with the world? Are there alternative and more nuanced ways for us to talk about Taiwan? In this episode we talk with George Yin, a research associate at Fairbank Center at Harvard. Amidst growing geopolitical tension, he argues that the importance of diplomacy cannot be overlooked. How can Taiwan be the bridge, rather than the frontline? 07:40 - How has the war on Ukraine highlighted anxiety about Taiwan? 18:24 - Are Taiwan people really not concerned about the prospect of armed conflicts? 27:40 - Taiwan's potential to be the "bridge" and how to start Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: George Yin, Distinguished Research Fellow at National Taiwan University’s Center for China Studies Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

#MeToo has taken Taiwan by storm, following a young woman's bombshell sexual harassment allegation in May. Over 100 victims, both men and women, have come forward to accuse prominent figures in politics, the arts, and academia. Inspired by a popular drama series "Wave Makers", the movement has prompted self-reflect and even a law revamp, but will real changes happen? 01:20 - Filmmaker Lynn telling her own story 18:30 - Why women in Taiwan are not speaking out 28:00 - Why there’s resistance to acknowledge the victims Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Nien-hsuan Fang, Associate Professor of National Chengchi University Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang ＊CW English: https://english.cw.com.tw ＊Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

Ever since the introduction of OpenAI's ChatGPT, many have marveled at its potential to assist human work while others are concerned about potential abuse or being replaced by it. In this episode, Kwangyin talked with Ethan Tu, founder of Taiwan AI Labs, who was once head of a Microsoft team that created the AI assistant Cortana, which later became the team that created ChatGPT. 08:40 - Is artificial intelligence threatening humanity? 12:35 - What’s Taiwan’s unique strength in the development of large language models? 21:30 - How AI is used to detect COVID patients 22:07 - The implication of AI for the music industry 27:42 - Will news anchors be replaced by AI? The use of the audio clip of the single “Teach Me the Ways to Be Your Love” was authorized by Sandee Chen. Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Ethan Tu, Founder of Taiwan AI Labs Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang Share your thoughts：bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting

With a yearly rainfall 2.6 times the global average, it's hard to imagine that water scarcity would be an issue for Taiwan. Over the past five years, Taiwan has no major typhoons, which has led to unprecedented droughts. How can Taiwan ensure a sustainable water supply not only for chipmakers like TSMC but also for the farmers, and its people? 04:52 - Why Taiwan is facing water shortages? 10:15 - The battle for water between rice farmers and chipmakers 13:20 - The "pearl necklace project" to connect reservoirs 21:09 - Why is water so cheap in Taiwan? Host: Kwangyin Liu Guest: Chien-Hsin Lai, the Director-General of Taiwan's Water Resources Agency Producers: Weiru Wang, Ian Huang Share your thoughts: bill@cw.com.tw 留言告訴我你對這一集的想法： https://open.firstory.me/user/cledx9shs004801v3cmkogc7e/comments Powered by Firstory Hosting