RESTRICTED  
  
WT/TPR/W/ 154 
19 October 2018  
(18-6537) Page: 1/44 
Trade Policy Review Body    
 
* In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN , PENGHU , KINMEN AND MATSU 
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 12 AND 14 SEPTEMBER 2018 
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 2 November 2018 . 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
TERRITOIRE DOUANIER D ISTINCT DE TAIWAN , PENGHU , KINMEN ET MATSU 
PROJET DE COMPTE REN DU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 12 ET 14 SEPTEMBRE  2018 
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Barbara Blanquart: barbara.blanquart@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 2 novembre 2018  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
TERRITORIO ADUANERO DISTINTO DE TAIWÁN , PENGHU , KINMEN Y MATSU 
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 12 Y 14 DE SEPTIEMBR E DE 2018  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Barbara Blanquart: 
barbara.blanquart@wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 2 de noviembre de 2018  las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 2 - 
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
 
SEPARATE CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN , PENGHU , KINMEN AND MATSU 
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEET ING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Eloi Laourou (Benin)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMA RKS BY THE CHAIRPERS ON ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT  BY THE REPRESENTATI VE OF THE SEPARATE C USTOMS 
TERRITORY OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU  ................................ .................  5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  8 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEM BERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  12 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRE SENTATIVE OF THE SEP ARATE CUSTOMS TERRIT ORY OF 
TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINM EN AND MATSU AND ADD ITIONAL COMMENTS  ........................  37 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY  THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  43 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu are reproduced in 
document WT/TPR/M/377/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 3 - 
 
  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS  BY THE CHAIRP ERSON  
1.1.  Le quatrième examen de la politique commerciale (EPC) du Territoire douanier distinct de 
Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen  et Matsu (Taipei chinois) a eu lieu les 12 et 14 septembre 2018. Le 
Président, S.E.  M. Eloi Laourou (Bénin), a souhaité la bienvenue à la délégation du Taipei chinois 
conduite par Mme Mei Hua Wang, Vice -Ministre des affaires économiques; aux autres membre s de 
la délégation; et au présentateur, S.E. M. l'Ambassadeur Marc Vanheukelen (Union européenne).  
1.2.  Le Président a rappelé l'objet des examens des politiques commerciales et les principaux 
éléments des procédures qui seraient suivies pour la réunion. Le rap port du Taipei chinois avait été 
publié sous la cote WT/TPR/G/377 et celui du Secrétariat de l'OMC sous la cote WT/TPR/S/377.  
1.3.  Les questions posées par les délégations ci -après avaient été communiquées par écrit avant la 
date limite: Islande; Union européen ne; Singapour; Hong Kong, Chine; Chine; États -Unis; Ukraine; 
Japon; Australie; Guatemala; Canada; Suisse; Nouvelle Zélande; Brésil; et le Royaume d'Arabie 
saoudite. Les délégations suivantes avaient présenté des questions écrites après la date limite: 
Colombie; Thaïlande; El Salvador; Argentine; Honduras; République de Corée; et les Philippines.  
1.4.  Lors de la précédente réunion d'examen, en 2014, les Membres avaient félicité le Taipei chinois 
pour ses progrès continus vers la libéralisation des échanges et des  investissements, l'intégration 
plus poussée dans l'économie mondiale et la diversification économique. Depuis lors, ses 
fondamentaux relativement solides et son économie bien développée et tournée vers l'extérieur ont 
contribué à maintenir sa stabilité ma crofinancière et à assurer la résilience de son économie tirée 
par les exportations. Pour l'examen en cours, les Membres ont cherché à obtenir, au moyen de leurs 
questions préalables, des renseignements supplémentaires au sujet des mesures visant à 
promouv oir des réformes structurelles liées au commerce, en particulier sur le marché du travail, 
ainsi que des caractéristiques relatives à la résilience et à l'orientation de l'économie vers l'extérieur.  
1.5.  Les Membres ont rappelé en outre que, lors du précédent e xamen, ils avaient félicité le 
Taipei  chinois pour ses efforts en vue de réduire les limitations à l'investissement entrant et ils 
avaient souligné qu'il était nécessaire de poursuivre les progrès en matière d'amélioration de la 
transparence et de la prévi sibilité du processus d'examen des investissements. Depuis son précédent 
examen, le Taipei chinois a réduit davantage sa liste négative pour l'investissement étranger. Tel 
qu'il ressort des questions écrites préalables, les Membres ont souhaité obtenir dav antage de 
renseignements au sujet des modifications à venir en ce qui concerne le cadre juridique relatif à 
l'investissement entrant, aux incitations à l'investissement et aux services fournis aux fins de la 
facilitation. En outre, des questions ont été po sées au sujet de la mise en œuvre de diverses 
stratégies, des faits nouveaux concernant l'évolution des Accords commerciaux régionaux (ACR) et 
des mesures visant à améliorer les conditions de l'activité des entreprises.  
1.6.  S'agissant de la politique commercia le, lors du précédent examen, les Membres avaient fait 
part de leur satisfaction concernant les efforts unilatéraux de libéralisation, les mesures visant à 
faciliter les échanges et les réformes juridiques relatives aux DPI du Taipei chinois et ils avaient  
encouragé ce dernier à poursuivre la libéralisation des échanges et les réformes touchant à 
l'ensemble de l'économie. Ils avaient appelé à davantage d'améliorations des mesures relatives aux 
droits de douane, ainsi que des mesures OTC et SPS, entre autres  choses. Au cours de la période 
considérée, bien que l'orientation générale de la politique commerciale soit restée relativement 
inchangée, il y a eu des faits nouveaux dans des domaines tels que la facilitation des échanges, les 
droits de douane, les mesu res contingentes, les mesures SPS, les marchés publics, la politique de 
la concurrence et les DPI. Lors de cet examen, certains Membres ont exprimé, au moyen de leurs 
questions écrites préalables, leur souhait d'en savoir plus au sujet des évolutions inter venues dans 
certains domaines, y compris la facilitation des échanges, les mesures contingentes, l'aide à 
l'exportation, les incitations à la production et au commerce, les normes et les prescriptions SPS, la 
politique de la concurrence et les droits de pr opriété intellectuelle.  
1.7.  S'agissant des questions sectorielles, le secteur agricole du Taipei chinois a continué de susciter 
beaucoup d'intérêt. Lors du dernier examen, les Membres avaient pris note du niveau élevé de l'aide 
publique, avaient posé des quest ions au sujet des subventions accordées et avaient suggéré que le 
Taipei chinois évalue la nécessité de maintenir des contingents tarifaires. Dans le cadre du présent 
examen, des questions ont été posées concernant un certain nombre de domaines, y compris la 
substitution aux importations et les nouveaux objectifs de la politique agricole; l'aide aux WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 4 - 
 
  agriculteurs; l’accroissement de la mesure globale du soutien totale et les sauvegardes spéciales 
fondées sur les prix du Taipei chinois.  
1.8.  Le Président a attiré l'attention des Membres sur les domaines additionnels ci -après, entre 
autres, au sujet desquels les Membres ont souhaité obtenir davantage d'éclaircissements. Ces 
domaines comprennent: les activités illégales de pêche et d'exploitation forestière; les obje ctifs et 
les incitations en matière d'énergie; les questions liées à l'industrie manufacturière; les questions 
réglementaires relatives aux services financiers et à l'accès aux marchés; et les questions liées à la 
commercialisation, à l'accès au marché et aux subventions dans le secteur du tourisme.  
1.9.  Cette réunion était une bonne occasion pour les Membres de discuter plus en détail des 
questions qui présentaient un intérêt pour eux et qui revêtaient une importance systémique pour le 
système commercial multil atéral. Le Président espérait assister à un échange fructueux et serein.  
  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 5 - 
 
  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY  THE REPRESENTATIVE OF THE SEPARATE CUST OMS 
TERRITORY OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU, KINMEN AND MATSU (MS. MEI HUA W ANG)  
2.1.  Good morning everyone. It is an honour for me to have the opportunity to lead this quadrennial 
delegation to Geneva, and renew our discussions over the past four years with distinguished 
Members on the economic and trade policies of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, 
Kinmen and Matsu.  
2.2.  Since 1995, the WTO Trade Policy Review has proved to contribute significantly on the 
transparency function of the WTO. It has served as a great tool for increasing mutual understanding 
between WTO Members. Members who go through the rigorous preparation proce ss of review benefit 
the most from it. We would like to thank the WTO Secretariat and Members for all the efforts involved 
in the process.  
2.3.  On behalf of my government, I thank all of you for participating in our fourth Trade Policy 
Review. We appreciate the  distinguished discussant, Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen, for his 
proactive efforts to enrich our discussions today. Ambassador Eloi Laourou (Chair of the TPRB) has 
been very kind in advising us on how to prepare for this meeting, and we are very confident o f his 
leadership.  
2.4.  When Director Alfaro and his team visited Taipei last May, we arranged for them to meet with 
about 250 representatives from more than 40 agencies. Their tireless efforts are duly reflected in 
the detailed and insightful report. However, w e have noticed that some descriptions in the report 
could perhaps be more precise. We will therefore submit our suggestions for modifications to the 
Secretariat after the meeting.  
The Global Economy and Trading System  
2.5.  Mr. Chairman, the economic situation o f the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, 
Kinmen and Matsu remains robust, particularly with the sustained rebound since 2016. However, 
numerous challenges still lie ahead. Being a free and open economy, our prosperity relies on the 
well-function ing of an open and inclusive multilateral trading system. Thus, it is crucial for us that 
the WTO remains the central pillar to the global trading system.  
2.6.  Thus, we, as Members that drive the WTO, should maximize our efforts to make sure that its 
rules are constantly updated to stay relevant to the evolution of technologies and trade patterns. 
With growing criticism among trade skeptics, the WTO needs to effectively answer the call to ensure 
that free trade benefits all.  
2.7.  In this context, we are willing to wo rk with all Members to revitalize the WTO. As a first step, 
we should ensure that the dispute settlement mechanism continues to function properly. We also 
support the call for more effective WTO supervision of Members in implementing their agreement 
obliga tions. We worry that lengthy negotiations without progress will make WTO agreements 
inflexible, obsolete and unproductive. Thus, we stand ready to work with all WTO Members to 
promote necessary reforms, and make concrete contributions towards strengthening  WTO functions.  
Economic and Trade Policies  
2.8.  Now let me turn to our trade policy agenda. First of all, preserving and advancing a rules -based 
multilateral trading system is the top trade policy priority of the Separate Customs Territory of 
Taiwan, Penghu, K inmen and Matsu. We continue to support the WTO by actively participating in 
the regular work of committees and councils. We also firmly support the elimination of subsidies that 
contribute to IUU fishing, as well as the promotion of e -commerce.  
2.9.  On regiona l trade integration, we are following closely the developments of the Comprehensive 
and Progressive Agreement for Trans -Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). We have endeavoured to align 
our laws and regulations with CPTPP provisions, by introducing several legisla tive amendments. In 
addition, as a genuine supporter of the concept of “open regionalism,” we have played a proactive 
role in the Asia -Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum. The latest priorities of our work in APEC 
range from digital economy, MSME glo balization, gender equality, and reducing food losses, etc.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 6 - 
 
  2.10.   To enhance our integration into the South and Southeast Asian region, my government has 
started implementing the New Southbound Policy since 2016. This new strategy has consolidated 
the efforts of  all levels of governments, private enterprises and civil society in their regional 
outreach. It aims to develop a new model of economic development by strengthening cooperation 
and linkages with members in the region.  
2.11.   On industrial policy, we focus on acc elerating the development of digital economy and 
domestic green energy to improve our industrial structure and resilience. The proportion of domestic 
electricity generated by renewable energy is expected to increase from the current 5% to 20% by 
2025. Gree n energy development will shape the future of our environment and economy by adding 
new investments and increasing employment.  
2.12.   To accommodate the needs for long -term economic development, industrial renovation and 
balanced regional development, my government launched the Forward -looking Infrastructure 
Development Program in 2017. The programme focuses on green energy, digital infrastructure, 
water environment construction, urban and rural projects, railways, human resources, employment, 
child care, and food safety.  
2.13.   In addition to modernizing infrastructures, we conducted several regulatory reforms during 
the review period to build a business -friendly environment. For example, we have relaxed a number 
of regulations on insurance and securities, introd uced a patent linkage system, reformed the income 
tax system, and passed the Act for the Recruitment and Employment of Foreign Professionals to 
attract foreign talents, among other efforts.  
2.14.   Our digital economy agenda has gradually come to form. For exampl e, the Fintech regulatory 
sandbox came into force this year. The application is now open for innovative entrepreneurs who 
meet the criteria to apply for an experimentation period of up to three years.  
2.15.   We have extended the public comment period for new reg ulations to 60 days as a minimum, 
and a user -friendly website (http://join.gov.tw) was established for tracking proposed regulatory 
amendments and for submitting comments. We are committed to safeguarding democratic values 
in our public policy, and are ver y proud to be ranked number one in the Global Open Data Index, 
which tracks the state of open government data.  
Future Outlook  
2.16.   To become a competitive economy in this world, several areas in our domestic arena are in 
need of improvement. Agriculture is a on e of those areas as well as one of our most sensitive 
subjects. Nevertheless, our experience of WTO accession 15 years ago has proved that the sky did 
not fall as many have worried. With the joint efforts of the government and farming societies in 
areas su ch as technology innovation, quality improvement, and marketing enforcement, our 
domestic agricultural output has actually steadily increased. During this time, consumers have also 
enjoyed a wider choice of quality imported agricultural products. This prov ides us with confidence to 
pursue ambitious trade agreements with other agricultural powerhouses, like New Zealand.  
2.17.   As I mentioned at the beginning, external trade is highly important to the Separate Customs 
Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu. W e remain committed to maintaining the core 
values of the WTO by continuing our support for the development of multilateral trade, and helping 
other Members integrate into the multilateral trade system.  
2.18.   As a major beneficiary of economic globalization, we are keen to give back and contribute to 
the international community. We are always ready and willing to give support to Aid -for-Trade and 
other types of assistance for developing country members, and work with them to achieve the UN 
Sustainable Development  Goals.  
Conclusion  
2.19.   We have received over 400 written questions from 22 Members, of which the 202 questions 
submitted before the official deadline have been carefully answered in writing. You are all very 
welcome to raise additional or follow -up questions d uring or after this meeting. We would especially WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 7 - 
 
  like to express our appreciation to the United States and the European Union for raising the most 
number of questions. We believe that questions and critiques are the best driving force for progress.  
2.20.   This co ncludes my statement. Thank you again for participating in our Trade Policy Review. 
We very much look forward to your feedback.  
  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 8 - 
 
  3  STATEMENT BY THE DIS CUSSANT  
3.1.  Please allow me to welcome the Head of delegation of Chinese Taipei, Vice Minister, 
Ms. Mei Hua Wa ng, Ministry of Economic Affairs, and my appreciated colleague Dr. Cyrus Chu and 
his team here in Geneva.  
3.2.  I thank the WTO Secretariat for the usual high -level and comprehensive Report and Chinese 
Taipei for its Report that both form the main basis for my comments today.  
3.3.  As is also customary, please let me recall that as the discussant for this review, I am speaking 
entirely on my own behalf.  
3.4.  Having said that, I would like to thank Chinese Taipei for the opportunity to act as the 
discussant for the Trade P olicy Review of a very active Member, in terms of its constructive 
participation in the work of this Organization. Chinese Taipei has taken part in several plurilateral 
initiatives like ITA, EGA, GPA and TiSA. It plays an active role in ongoing Doha -relate d negotiations 
and supports the Buenos Aires Joint Initiatives and declarations. I would like to pay tribute to 
Chinese  Taipei's attachment to the rules -based multilateral trading system, especially in the 
challenging times the Organization is going throug h.  
3.5.  As a demonstration of its dedication to the transparency pillar of this Organization, 
Chinese  Taipei has chosen alternative timelines for its Trade Policy Review that has allowed me and 
the Members to review the replies to the written questions in adva nce of this meeting and thus to 
contribute to more interactivity and transparency of this exercise. This review serves as an important 
addition to the already strong record of notifications of Chinese Taipei to the WTO (although nothing 
is perfect and ther e are some outstanding notification obligations in the area of subsidies and 
incentives, notably the pending up to -date notification on domestic support to agriculture).  
3.6.  I would like to organize my substantive remarks with some general observations on the 
economic situation and overall trade policy of Chinese Taipei. I will then focus on the key changes 
since the previous TPR in 2014 as well as the main trade -related challenges, as highlighted in the 
Members' questions as areas of interest. The great intere st and importance that WTO Members 
attribute to Chinese Taipei's trade policies and practices is clearly demonstrated by over 
400 questions submitted by 22 Members.  
3.7.  As to the overall economic situation, the Secretariat report notes that the relatively stro ng 
fundamentals and well developed, well diversified and outward -looking economy of Chinese Taipei 
have helped to maintain macro -financial stability and resilience. Despite some concerns related to 
innovation and labour, Chinese Taipei has maintained its p osition among the world's most 
competitive economies while registering a slight decline in income inequality. In this context, I would 
like to note that Chinese Taipei has a level of prosperity as measured by GDP per capita of 
US$25  980, which is well comp arable to that of many developed members of the OECD.  
3.8.  During the review period, average annual GDP growth for the period 2014 -2017 stood at 2.3%, 
which is a slowdown compared to previous years. However, in the first half of 2018, the economy 
has showed a strong performance of GDP expanding by 3.2 %. The unemployment rate hit the 
lowest level in 18 years with 3.6%.  
3.9.  Chinese Taipei remains open to international trade and is well integrated into the world 
economy and global value chains. It maintains a well -developed infrastructure, an educated 
workforce, and a pro -business attitude while benefiting from a geographically strategic location. Its 
trade policy continues to be based on the premise that trade openness, innovation, connectivity, 
and economic perform ance are strongly linked. It continues to pursue a combined unilateral, 
bilateral, regional and multilateral approach to trade policy. Chinese Taipei has currently RTAs in 
force with nine economies; those entering into force during this review period were RTAs with 
Singapore and New Zealand, covering goods and services, and a cooperation agreement with 
Paraguay.  
3.10.   International trade and inbound direct investment trends reflect the continuous importance 
of Asia Pacific as Chinese Taipei's main market and supp lier with China, Japan, the United States 
and the European Union remaining its major individual trading partners and China as the biggest WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 9 - 
 
  export destination. Goods exports hit a historic record of US$163 billion in the first half of the year 
with machinery  and mechanical appliances, including IT products, remaining the major exports. 
China has also remained the biggest outbound investment destination (47%) for Chinese Taipei. The 
growing integration of those two economies is therefore striking, notwithstand ing regular political 
tensions.  
3.11.   Chinese Taipei continues to offer non -reciprocal preferences to all LDCs and as a major 
beneficiary of economic globalisation itself, it is willing and ready to contribute to Aid for Trade and 
other assistance initiatives by  making financial and other forms of contributions and assistance to 
developing country Members, as well as to related WTO agencies.  
3.12.   As one Chinese proverb says: "The leaves of the tree are many, but the root is one. When 
the root is firm the branches flourish". I think we can all commend Chinese Taipei for achieving such 
a good foundation that will bring success and sustainability of i ts policies in the longer term.  
3.13.   Both reports note that during the review period, several trade and trade -related structural 
reforms were undertaken and a number of reform initiatives have been adopted to boost the 
economy and improve competitiveness, whic h - according to the World Economic Forum's 2017 -2018 
Global Competitiveness Index – slipped somewhat. This brings me to the second part of my remarks 
– the key developments since the last TPR in 2014, and there have been quite a few.  
3.14.   Chinese Taipei has im plemented the development plan (2013 -2016) whose objective was to 
accelerate structural adjustments and relax regulations. Now, key policies, namely the development 
plan for 2017 -2020 and the "5+2" Industrial Innovation Plan are being implemented to accele rate 
the economy's innovation.  
3.15.   The New Southbound Policy was launched to provide an overarching framework for the 
development of a new and comprehensive relationship with additional partners in the Asia –Pacific 
region and to boost links with partners in th is region.  
3.16.   The Forward -looking Infrastructure Development Programme, launched in 2017 with a 
30 year horizon, aims to build the infrastructure needed for Chinese Taipei's development.  
3.17.   During the review period, one other key legislative achievement was the  Financial Technology 
Development and Innovative Experimentation Act, which came into force on 30 April 2018, 
introducing the so -called "financial supervision sandbox system" to encourage financial technology 
innovation.  
3.18.   An ambitious energy reform program me aims, inter alia , to increase the share of locally 
produced renewable energy in the total energy mix to 20%, to transition to cleaner energy, and to 
end nuclear power generation by 2025. Tax reform, labour market reform, and fisheries 
management reform,  as reported in both reports, should also be flagged as relevant developments 
since the last review.  
3.19.   Turning now to the trade and investment regime and trade policy measures and practices, 
since the last Trade Policy Review, the general thrust of the inves tment and trade policy of 
Chinese  Taipei has actually remained unchanged. While no unilateral liberalization has been 
undertaken, there have been policy developments in certain areas such as trade facilitation, 
competition policy, intellectual property rig hts, tariffs, preferential trade agreements, sanitary and 
phytosanitary requirements, and public procurement.  
3.20.   Many of these areas have been of interest to the 22 Members that have posed advance 
questions to Chinese Taipei. Allow me to highlight some that s eem to have attracted most of the 
interest – and sometimes also concern – by the Membership.  
3.21.   Improving investment and business climate has been a recurrent theme in both of the 
previous TPRs where Chinese Taipei has been encouraged to reduce high public s ector involvement 
in the economy and address regulatory concerns of foreign investors. I have seen again a number 
of questions from Members on this theme also at this review.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 10 - 
 
  3.22.   Since the previous review, there have been not many changes to the legal framewo rk. 
However, the authorities have been conducting a comprehensive re -evaluation of the current draft 
amendments and have indicated that consideration is being given to removing the pre -investment 
screening/review requirement and replacing it with a post -investment registration mechanism.  
3.23.   As a positive development, Chinese Taipei's negative list containing investment prohibitions 
and restrictions has now been amended to allow overseas investment in ship leasing services and 
the cultivation of certain agricu ltural crops. New measures have also been taken to foster greater 
public participation in policy formulation through the establishment of an online public policy platform 
and the introduction of deadlines for responses by the public sector to stakeholder c omments.  
3.24.   During the review period, Chinese Taipei's trade facilitation developments included the 
ratification of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2015, the adoption of amendments clarifying 
relevant legislation (Customs Act), further integration of  online operations with the Customs Port 
Trade Single Window, and the introduction of expeditious customs clearance services. However, 
harbour dues for overseas routes remain 60% higher than for domestic routes. Average time to 
process goods is almost 6 da ys from arrival to removal of goods for sea cargo. According to the 
World Bank Doing Business data index, in 2017, Chinese Taipei stood 55th out of 190 economies in 
the ease of trading across borders, which is quite a bit lower than where it stood in 2013 when it 
stood at rank 18 instead of 55.  
3.25.   According to the World Economic Forum, in 2015 the most problematic factors for importing 
in Chinese Taipei were mainly: tariffs and non -tariff barriers; high cost or delays caused by 
international and domestic tran sportation; burdensome import procedures; and domestic technical 
requirements and standards.  
3.26.   These issues have often been referred to in Members' questions, such as on further alignment 
of standards and technical requirements with international standards, simplifying certification and 
testing requirements, streamlining conformity assessment procedures, plans for tariff structure 
simplification, expansion of the scope of export prohibitions, and duty and tax concessions and 
incentives.  
3.27.   One area that has agai n received considerable attention by Members – and some expressions 
of concern – is the sanitary and phytosanitary regime. The report notes that during the review 
period, the main laws and regulations affecting food standards and specification have basical ly 
remained the same.  
3.28.   Members have raised questions on the consideration of international standards when 
establishing restrictions on imports from countries with animal disease; regulatory measures to 
improve food safety of locally produced food items; de lays on issue of sanitary certificates for 
unprocessed imported foodstuffs; restrictions on certain imports of beef and poultry products and 
procedures for establishing maximum residue limits, to name a few. Reportedly, Chinese Taipei's 
slow process for es tablishing minimum residue levels for pesticides, the low level of approved MRLs, 
and zero tolerance policy for pesticides without established MRLs have resulted in incoming 
agricultural shipments being stopped at the ports of entry. Some Members have invi ted 
Chinese  Taipei to notify its SPS measures to the WTO at the draft stage and ensure that sufficient 
time is given to submit comments and for those comments to be taken into consideration later on.  
3.29.   Maybe Chinese Taipei could share its thinking on these SPS issues and any plans to expedite 
and simplify procedures and practices?  
3.30.   Turning finally to sectoral policies, while Members have shown considerable interest in 
developments in the financial services sector, as well as in the energy -related incentives a nd 
subsidies and initiatives against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, the call for more 
liberalization in agricultural policy and measures has remained at the forefront of many Members' 
concerns.  
3.31.   Chinese Taipei's objectives for the agricu ltural sector are set out in its New Agricultural Policy, 
adopted in December 2016. The overall aim is reportedly to create a multi -functional agricultural 
sector, rather than merely providing subsidies, as in the past.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 11 - 
 
  3.32.   The average applied MFN tariff for agricultural products was 17.8% in 2018. Thirty tariff lines 
had rates over 100%, mainly as a result of the tariff lines with out -of-quota rates. Special safeguard 
measures were taken several times during the review period. During Chinese Taipei's previous  
review, it was observed that there had been a notable increase in price -based special safeguards 
since 2013; this tendency is also reflected in the current review period.  
3.33.   And there have been several other areas of interest from Members, such as competiti on 
policy, privatization plans, enhancing further IPR legislation and enforcement, and public 
procurement.  
3.34.   Chair, some of the challenges observed at the last TPR four years ago persist today.  
3.35.   One of them is the shrinking of the labour force, although ong oing technological upgrading is 
expected to maintain productivity gains. The labour force challenge is one that a growing number of 
WTO Members face and needs to be addressed through various means, including life -long learning. 
After all, as another Chines e saying goes: "If you are planning for a year, plant rice. If you are 
planning for a decade, plant trees. If you are planning for a lifetime, educate people".  
3.36.   Sustained growth in the highly competitive region of Asia depends on implementing 
productivity e nhancing structural reforms, especially those aimed at the shift of the economy from 
industry to services, with a greater focus on raising quality value added.  
3.37.   Chinese Taipei has several challenges to tackle. However, and I herewith conclude, Chair, 
every thing I have read and heard in the context of this 4th Trade Policy Review so far, suggests that 
authorities are taking these challenges seriously and Chinese Taipei is setting for itself the goals to 
do so. I trust that in five years' time at the 5th TPR,  the WTO Membership will be able to take stock 
of further progress made by Chinese Taipei. Thank you.  
  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 12 - 
 
  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBER S 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.1.  Chinese Taipei is an active Member of the WTO. The EU wishes to commend Chinese Taipei for 
its support to the Organization and for the good work that the Permanent Representative of Chinese 
Taipei to the WTO and his great team are delivering in Geneva, including the contribution to our 
cultural education with the wonderful calligraphy and orchid exhibitions. We wo uld be interested, if 
time allows, hearing about Chinese Taipei's views on how to modernize the WTO.  
4.2.  Chinese Taipei's economy is vibrant. Unemployment is very low. The economy is very much 
trade -orientated (the ratio of trade to GDP is 117%) which entails certain risks when the main 
trading partners face difficulties as detailed in the WTO Secretariat report and this is why the 
authorities have taken several initiatives to diversify and to modernize the economy, for example 
with the labour market reform, or  the measures aimed at attracting foreign talent. Further 
information on the impact of these reforms is of interest to the EU.  
4.3.  Chinese Taipei also tries to diversify and expand its business opportunities overseas with 
several FTAs in force since the last r eview, namely with Singapore and New Zealand and a 
cooperation agreement with Paraguay. Chinese Taipei is also actively pursuing the new Southbound 
Policy. We would appreciate further insights from Chinese Taipei about the objectives and the results 
of this initiative.  
4.4.  Regarding the reforms undertaken during the review period, which the discussant has 
described, improvements have also been brought for example with establishment of an online public 
platform allowing the public to inquire of the progress of amendments to regulations and submit 
comments or the extension of the deadlines for comments on draft legislation. We would also like 
to stress that the recent notification of the "transparency measures" under the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement is very welco me and shows the commitment to transparency of the authorities.  
4.5.  The EU and Chinese Taipei entertain very good relations that go beyond our share of Chinese 
Taipei's external trade and investment. Our relationship is based on common interests in an open, 
free and fair rule -based international trading system. We have had several occasions, including very 
recently in June, to deepen our relations with discussions on a number of topics including investment, 
intellectual property rights, technical barriers to tr ade and SPS measures. Given our good bilateral 
understanding we have limited the number of questions during this TPR (but I note from the opening 
statement of Chinese Taipei that we still made to the top in this regard). We concentrate on major 
difficultie s that operators continue to face and which were the subject of the Chair's conclusions at 
the last review.  
4.6.  For example, while the EU appreciates Chinese Taipei's recent progress for opening its food 
market to EU products, we remain concerned about the ver y lengthy and cumbersome authorization 
procedures which take many years. We also call on Chinese Taipei to recognize systematically the 
concept of regionalisation in line with the WTO SPS Agreement. Regarding Organics, we have 
recurrently raised the diffic ulties that importers face, such as a limited and unclear unilateral 
recognition of equivalency, limited recognition of certification bodies and strict ex post controls. We 
look forward to discussing with Chinese Taipei and to find solutions to these probl ems. 
4.7.  Regarding procurement, the EU welcomes Chinese Taipei's adoption of the most advantageous 
tender approach for large procurement and professional construction contracts. The EU encourages 
further improvements such as the extension of the approach to lo wer value procurement projects 
and the expansion of the coverage of the GPA to all six main municipalities. The capacity of EU 
operators to bid efficiently would also be greatly enhanced if publications of calls were made 
sufficiently in advance and in Eng lish. 
4.8.  On agriculture, we note that the last Chair conclusions remain valid and we would also 
appreciate if Chinese Taipei could inform us of its state of preparation of the notifications that remain 
due. 
4.9.  On IPR, the EU would call on Chinese Taipei to conti nue its efforts on enforcement.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 13 - 
 
  4.10.   Finally, we would like to thank Chinese Taipei for using the alternative timeline and we wish 
Chinese Taipei a very productive 4th review.  
SINGAPORE  
4.11.   Over the years, economic relations between Singapore and Chinese Taipei hav e grown from 
strength to strength. Chinese Taipei was Singapore’s 6th largest trading partner in 2017, with 
bilateral trade amounting to S$60.4 billion, which was a 14.9% increase over 2016. As of end -2016, 
Singapore companies have cumulatively invested S$ 7.6 billion in Chinese Taipei, making Chinese 
Taipei the 10th largest investment destination in Asia for Singapore. Conversely, Chinese Taipei was 
Singapore’s 6th largest source of investments from Asia as of end -2016, with a cumulative value of 
S$16.4 bil lion.  
4.12.   Economic cooperation spans a diverse range of sectors, including high -tech manufacturing, 
banking, infrastructure, as well as retail and food services. Chinese Taipei’s report for this TPR cites 
several steps that Chinese Taipei is taking to pursue industrial reform and to also create a 
business -friendly environment to attract Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Singapore welcomes these 
developments and looks forward to the further strengthening of mutual economic cooperation.  
4.13.   The entry into force of th e Agreement between Singapore and the Separate Customs Territory 
of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu on Economic Partnership (ASTEP) in 2014 marked a significant 
milestone in Singapore’s economic relations with Chinese Taipei. Among its benefits, ASTEP pro vides 
preferential tariff access for exporters, and improved market access for services providers from both 
sides. ASTEP also strengthens cooperation and exchanges of best practices between both sides on 
areas such as intellectual property, e -commerce and competition. These create an environment that 
boost the confidence of businesses and investors from both sides. We are optimistic that ASTEP will 
continue to bolster the existing strong ties between our business communities.  
4.14.   As also noted by the Secretaria t in its report, the openness of the Chinese Taipei economy to 
international trade and its integration into the world economy and global value chains are reflected 
in the steadily high ratio of its trade in goods and services to GDP. Chinese Taipei has rat ified the 
TFA and made its Category A notification; Chinese Taipei has also accepted the revised GPA, and 
will fully implement the final bound rates relating to the ITA expansion by 2021. We note from the 
report that an up -to-date notification on domestic support in agriculture is pending, and we urge 
Chinese Taipei to do so promptly.  
4.15.   At the WTO, Chinese Taipei has played an active and constructive role in negotiations and in 
the work of the various committees, including sharing with WTO Members various ide as and research 
papers of topical interest. Singapore looks forward to continuing our warm and close cooperation 
with Chinese Taipei and its Mission to the WTO led by Permanent Representative Dr. Cyrus Chu, to 
uphold the rules -based multilateral trading sy stem. We wish Chinese Taipei every success for this 
TPR. 
HONG  KONG,  CHINA  
4.16.   Hong Kong, China (HKC) has a close trade and economic relationship with Chinese Taipei. 
Chinese Taipei was HKC’s 3rd largest trading partner in goods in 2017 and our 6th largest trad ing 
partner in services in 2016.  
4.17.   During the review period, Chinese Taipei has continued to undertake trade and trade -related 
structural reforms by accelerating systemic adjustments and relaxing regulations; and has 
maintained its position as one of the wor ld's most competitive economies.  
4.18.   Regarding trade in services, we appreciate in particular that requirements for foreign 
professionals have been relaxed with respect to visas, employment, residence, etc. Access to the 
securities market has also been facilit ated by, inter alia , streamlining of procedures of account 
opening and lifting of limits on margin purchases and short sales. As the services industry continues 
to be the driving force of CT’s GDP and employment (with their respective contributions at abou t 
60%), we encourage Chinese Taipei to consider further liberalising its services trade regime to 
attract foreign direct investment.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 14 - 
 
  4.19.   Regarding trade in goods, Chinese Taipei has all its tariff lines bound, and most rates are 
levied ad valorem. Nonetheless , its tariff structure still consists of specific rates and alternate rates. 
We would encourage simplification to enhance predictability.  
4.20.   During the review period, Chinese Taipei has continued to implement various trade facilitation 
measures. For instance,  the Customs -Port-Trade (CPT) Single Window had further integrated inter -
agency business services and simplified clearance procedures. In addition, more businesses had 
been granted authorised economic operator status.  
4.21.   Meanwhile, protection of intellectual property rights (IPRs) has also been strengthened 
through legislative amendments in the areas of patents, trademarks and copyrights, including 
certain alignments with international practices. Further work on trade secrets and copyrights is in 
progress. Chi nese Taipei has also enhanced enforcement of IPRs through action plans, an inter -
agency coordination taskforce, and educational activities.  
4.22.   We note, however, the concerns about copyright protection highlighted in the Secretariat 
Report. More specifically, there has been a huge amount of stream ripping and illegal downloading 
activities supported by non -hosted websites and websites offshore; copyright protection is relatively 
short-term; and the penalties for violation have been relaxed. We encourage Chinese  Taipei to take 
more proactive efforts to improve its copyright regime.  
4.23.   Agriculture, although accounting for only 1.7% of Chinese Taipei’s GDP, continues to be a 
major recipient of government protection and assistance, through measures such as inbound 
investment restriction and domestic support. The average applied MFN tariff for agricultural products 
stands high at 17.8%, compared to the 5.1% for non -agricultural goods. Indeed, 30 tariff lines have 
rates exceeding 100%. We encourage Chinese Taipei to step up its effort in further liberalizing its 
agricultural sector.  
4.24.   We note that Chinese Taipei has submitted up -to-date agriculture -related notifications to the 
WTO except those regarding domestic support required under Article 18:2 of the Agreement on 
Agricul ture. We urge Chinese Taipei to submit timely notifications for transparency and an effective 
review of its implementation of commitments.  
4.25.   Looking ahead, HKC will continue to strengthen economic and trade cooperation with Chinese 
Taipei.  
4.26.   We thank Chinese T aipei for their timely response to our questions, and wish the delegation 
a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
CHINA  
4.27.   Chinese Taipei is one of the global important economic and trading entities. Its economic 
growth slowed down during the period under revi ew due to the sluggish recovery of global economy 
and the fact that market demand is yet to pick up. Meanwhile, by pursuing the vision of openness 
in its trade policy, improving trade facilitation measures and upgrading the business environment, 
Chinese Ta ipei’s competitiveness has continued to improve, and significant growth has been 
achieved in its trade volume after 2017.  
4.28.   Since the previous review, the momentum has been maintained in terms of the close 
economic and trade interchanges across the Strait. I n the field of trade, according to China’s 
Customs statistics, the trade volume across the Strait in 2017 was US$199.39 billion, increased by 
11.3% compared with the same period of last year. Our exports to Chinese Taipei reached US$43.99 
billion, and impo rts from Chinese Taipei reached US$155.4 billion. During the period under review, 
the cross -strait trade status remained unchanged. Chinese Taipei is our seventh biggest trading 
partner, and we are the biggest trading partner, biggest export market and big gest source of trade 
surplus of Chinese Taipei. In terms of investment, according to statistics of the Ministry of Commerce 
of China, as of June 2018, authorized investors from Chinese Taipei have actually invested 
US$67.1  billion in an accumulative total of more than 100,000 projects in Mainland China, 
maintaining the second place in terms of total overseas investment accumulatively absorbed by 
Mainland China. While 417 enterprises from Mainland China have invested US$2.5 billion in 
Chinese  Taipei.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 15 - 
 
  4.29.   Althou gh the volumes of trade and investment cross -strait continued to grow during the 
period under review, we also note the imbalance reflected by the above -mentioned statistics in 
economic and trade cooperation. Our trade deficit with Chinese Taipei reached US $111.41 billion in 
2017 and a huge gap also exists in investment. The amount of investment made by enterprises from 
Mainland China in Chinese Taipei only amounts to 3.7% of the investment made by investors from 
Chinese Taipei in Mainland China. The importa nt reason for this sharp contrast is that Chinese Taipei 
has not accorded us the same treatment as accorded to other WTO Members. Its market is much 
less open to investors from the Mainland China vis -a-vis its high level of openness to other WTO 
Members. I n addition, discriminatory measures still remain in trade, investment and services.  
4.30.   In the field of trade, as the Secretariat report states that, in 2018, apart from 91 prohibited 
products on an MFN basis, additional prohibitions apply to direct cross -strait imports of some 
2,333  tariff lines (HS 10 -digit) by Chinese Taipei, which includes more than 1,300 industrial products 
and over 900 agricultural products.   
4.31.   With regard to investment and services, Chinese Taipei adopts a positive list for investors 
from Mainland China which designates the sectors that mainland investment may enter, and only 
51% of service projects and 51% of public construction projects were open to investors from 
Mainland China. Restrictive measures including high threshold for market a ccess, differentiated 
treatment, burdensome approval formalities and so -called security review are still imposed in the 
services sectors that have been liberalized. These factors have prevented the potentials in 
cross-strait economic and trade cooperation from being further tapped and particularly hindered the 
economic development of Chinese Taipei itself.  
4.32.   We call upon Chinese Taipei to fully implement its WTO commitments, rectify its trade policies 
and practices inconsistent with the WTO rules, eliminate discriminatory measures targeted against 
us and guarantee that we enjoy equal treatment as other WTO Members, so as to promote 
cross-strait trade exchanges and economic cooperation in a fair and open manner with win -win 
outcomes.  
4.33.   We will also submit some follow -up questions after today’s meeting and expect Chinese Taipei 
to provide replies in due course.  
4.34.   The Trade Policy Review Mechanism is one of the major functions of the WTO, the operation 
of which will strengthen the multilateral trading system. We wou ld wish this TPR smooth and 
successful.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.35.   The United States is pleased to welcome the distinguished Head of delegation Ms. Wang with 
those visiting from Taipei, and to acknowledge Dr. Cyrus Chu and the team here in Geneva during 
this Trade Poli cy Review TPR of Chinese Taipei. We acknowledge the thanks and mention of many 
questions from the U.S., and note that the shoe will be on the other foot in just three months when 
the U.S. will be under review.  
4.36.   As the Secretariat notes in its report, Chines e Taipei’s openness to international trade and 
integration with the global economy has resulted in a high ratio of trade in goods and services to 
GDP. Chinese Taipei continues to play an active role in the WTO and has adopted strategies designed 
to bring C hinese Taipei’s trade policies in line with its goals.  
4.37.   The United States and Chinese Taipei continue to have strong and diverse trade and 
investment ties. Chinese Taipei is currently the United States’ 11th largest goods trading partner 
with US$68.2 billio n in total (two way) goods trade during 2017. Trade in services with Chinese 
Taipei (exports and imports) totalled an estimated US$17.9 billion in 2017. Top U.S. exports to 
Chinese Taipei in 2017 include machinery, electrical machinery, and aircraft. Chine se Taipei remains 
our 7th largest agricultural export market with US$3.3 billion in exports of agricultural products in 
2017.  
4.38.   Chinese Taipei has been an active and positive partner in multilateral and plurilateral trade 
liberalization initiatives. Since 20 10, Chinese Taipei has positively participated in the WTO 
Agreement on Government Procurement and has implemented its commitments under the revised WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 16 - 
 
  GPA. Additionally, in 2015, Chinese Taipei ratified the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement and the 
Information  Technology Agreement.  
4.39.   The United States commends Chinese Taipei on efforts it has made over the past four years 
to liberalize its trade and investment regime and further integrate with the global economy. For 
instance, in December 2017, Chinese Taipei pas sed amendments to the Pharmaceutical Affairs Act 
that establish an effective mechanism for early resolution of potential patent disputes. We now look 
forward to swift implementation. Furthermore, beginning in 2016, Chinese Taipei implemented a 
requirement that all draft regulations or revisions of existing regulations must provide a 60 -day 
notice and comment period. This is very welcome.  
4.40.   The United States would also like to highlight areas that we believe need greater attention. 
We remain concerned about Ch inese Taipei’s failure to remove unwarranted restrictions on pork and 
beef market access. The United States is also concerned by the growing backlog of applications for 
the establishment of maximum residue levels to ensure food safety. We urge Chinese Taip ei to use 
science -based international standards and practices and to resume timely issuance of approvals.  
4.41.   In other areas, the United States encourages Chinese Taipei to more thoroughly examine 
international standards and to avoid creating technical and san itary or phytosanitary barriers to 
trade that discourage imports and investment. The United States also observes a need for sustained 
progress by Chinese Taipei in improving the transparency and predictability of the investment review 
process. And pharmace utical and medical device manufacturers continue to face challenges, 
including delays in introducing new products to the market, and non -transparent pricing and 
reimbursement policies.   
4.42.   On these and other issues, the United States will continue to engage with Chinese Taipei 
across the forums and initiatives that we have established in order to further break down trade 
barriers and strengthen our economic ties.  
4.43.   In closing, we look forward to reviewing and discussing Chinese Taipei’s responses to our 
advance d written questions – thank you for all the efforts to respond - and look forward to a positive 
and constructive Trade Policy Review.  
UKRAINE  
4.44.   As a Member of Article XII Members Group, Ukraine highly values the effective partnership 
cooperation with Chinese  Taipei across the WTO bodies on trade issues of mutual interest. We 
acknowledge active and initiative engagement of Chinese Taipei in the ongoing work and multilateral 
negotiations of the WTO on the number of elements within the current agenda; e -commerce , fishery 
subsidies to name a few.  
4.45.   In 2017 the trade turnover between Ukraine and Chinese Taipei amounted to US$277 million, 
while trade in goods has reached US$270 million and trade in services was around US$7 million. 
Ukraine trades with Chinese Taipei f erroalloys, timber, sunflower seed oil, mineral products, flat 
rolled steel and pipes, mineral fertilizers, motorized vehicles etc.   
4.46.   Within this TPR exercise Ukraine has submitted a number of  specific questions seeking 
clarifications on a range of the following topics, in particular:  
• trade and investment regime;  
• "New Agricultural Policy";  
• Trade Promotion Service Fee;  
• Sanitary and phytosanitary measures;  
• financial and tourism services;  
• intellec tual property protection of medical and pharmaceutical inventions;  
• Financial Technology Development and Innovative Experimentation Act, etc.  
4.47.   We would like to express our gratitude for the responses provided, which we have carefully 
reviewed. In this regard , we would also like to use this review to seek further clarifications on the 
application procedure for the recognition of a disease -free zone within the territory of an exporting 
Member.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 17 - 
 
  4.48.   In conclusion, I would like to express our appreciation to the deleg ation of Chinese Taipei and 
especially to the team of the Mission of Chinese Taipei to the WTO in Geneva for their significant 
work in preparing for this TPR.  
4.49.   Ukraine wishes the delegation of Chinese Taipei a successful Trade Policy Review and looks 
forwar d to strengthening mutually beneficial trade relationship.  
JAPAN  
4.50.   We would like to express our sincere appreciation for the dedicated efforts made by Chinese 
Taipei and the WTO Secretariat to prepare the reports shared with the Members in advance of today's  
review. I would also like to add that we are satisfied with the answers provided by Chinese Taipei to 
our written questions, which included useful information on existing rules in areas of interest to us 
such as the construction sector.  
4.51.   Japan and Chinese Taipei have developed strong economic ties for many years. This is 
supported by the fact that Chinese Taipei is the fourth largest trading economy for Japan in 2017.  
4.52.   First of all, we truly appreciate the dedicated efforts made by Chinese Taipei for further  
liberalization of its economy through means such as: a slight reduction of the MFN tariff rate; 
enhanced transparency supported by notification to the WTO; and promotion of trade facilitation 
measures, including adoption of the TFA in 2015. We expect Chin ese Taipei to facilitate continuous 
efforts for supporting an open and transparent multilateral trading system.  
4.53.   According to the Secretariat report, Chinese Taipei is facing a major slowdown in its economic 
development during this review period. Its annual  GDP growth rate was 2.3% from 2014 to 2017, 
which is significantly lower than the 4.3% growth rate it achieved from 2002 to 2013. As Chinese 
Taipei is heavily dependent on exports in its economy, we believe it is important to further promote 
trade and tra de-related structural reforms in order to strengthen its competitiveness in the global 
market.  
4.54.   To this effect, we welcome the active participation of Chinese Taipei in the WTO’s initiatives 
for future rule making, such as the Joint Statement initiatives on  electronic commerce addressed in 
MC11. We further welcome the efforts made by Chinese Taipei to submit notifications to the WTO in 
order to maintain the transparency of its market. According to the Secretariat report, however, 
notification on domestic sup port in its agricultural sector is not up to date. We strongly encourage 
Chinese Taipei to make the necessary update without delay. In addition, we welcome Chinese 
Taipei’s active participation in the global market through pursuing RTAs with many economies . 
4.55.   Japan does also have some concerns with regard to Chinese Taipei’s trade policies. 
Specifically, we have strong concerns regarding the import ban on food exports from five Japanese 
prefectures after the accident at Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station  in 2011. Seven years have 
already passed since the accident, and many WTO members have either eliminated or eased such 
regulations. We are aware, however, that Chinese Taipei has strengthened its import ban by 
introducing the additional labelling standard  of "prefecture of origin" for all foods from Japan since 
2015. Although we understand the importance of food safety, we strongly request that such 
measures be reviewed and improved. We are also strongly concerned by the high tariffs imposed by 
Chinese Tai pei in the agricultural sector.  
4.56.   In conclusion, we are convinced that Chinese Taipei can continue to play a significant role in 
the global economy through further liberalization of its trade and investment environment. We look 
forward to maintaining close c ooperation between our two economies, Japan and Chinese Taipei, 
and wish Chinese Taipei a successful and productive TPR.  
AUSTRALIA  
4.57.   Chinese Taipei remains an important trading partner for Australia. Australia’s supply of 
resources and primary products to Ch inese Taipei, and the significant value of Chinese Taipei’s 
high-technology exports to Australia, continue to underpin our economic relationship.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 18 - 
 
  4.58.   In 2017, Chinese Taipei was Australia’s eighth -largest merchandise export market, importing 
close to AU$9 bil lion of Australian natural resources, agricultural, lifestyle and other products. In the 
other direction, Australia imported AU$4.4 billion worth of merchandise imports from Chinese Taipei 
in 2017 – including computers, motorcycles and bicycles. Two -way go ods trade grew by over 10% 
in 2017.  
4.59.   Tourism and education -related travel to Australia from Chinese Taipei remain strong. As a 
result, the two -way services trade between the two economies has grown to AU$1.8 billion in 2017, 
and Chinese Taipei is now Austra lia’s 14th largest services export market. Australia is pleased that 
the bilateral working holiday -maker arrangement continues to be popular among young travellers 
from Chinese Taipei. Australia welcomes recent efforts by Chinese Taipei to encourage the 
movement of foreign professionals, students and youth entrepreneurs to Chinese Taipei by relaxing 
access restrictions and moving toward mutual recognition arrangements in some sectors.  
4.60.   Two-way foreign investment between Australia and Chinese Taipei is expanding. In 2016 
Australia’s Macquarie Capital announced it will be investing AU$1 billion in Chinese Taipei in offshore 
wind power. This contributed to overall Australian investment stock in Chinese Taipei rising to 
8.2 billion in 2017. Chinese Taipei -based companies are significant investors in several Australian 
sectors, including mining, agriculture, banking and food and beverage industries. Despite these 
encouraging signs, there is still significant room for growth.  
4.61.   Australia welcomes ongoing efforts  by Chinese Taipei to liberalize its regulatory settings 
affecting investment, financial services and the banking sector. Chinese Taipei may wish to consider 
further liberalization to encourage innovation, domestic investment and higher investment returns.  
Measures could include: relaxing caps for insurance companies investing in overseas infrastructure; 
allowing insurance companies to lend to green finance; and enabling employee -choice and privately 
managed pension funds.  
4.62.   Like Chinese Taipei, Australia re cognizes the importance to our economies of open, 
competitive and transparent public procurement. We thank Chinese Taipei for its support for 
Australia’s accession to the WTO Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA) and look forward 
to working with Chines e Taipei on this important committee.  
4.63.   Australia welcomes efforts by Chinese Taipei to boost regional economic and trade 
cooperation, including through its New Southbound Policy. Such regional engagement presents 
opportunities for Chinese Taipei and Austral ia to deepen their economic and people -to-people 
linkages, including in the agricultural sector.  
4.64.   We note that despite Chinese Taipei’s intention to pursue liberalization in the agricultural 
sector, there has been minimal change to the tariff schedule since  the last review in 2014. Australia 
understands Chinese Taipei’s motivations - under its New Agricultural Policy - to reinvigorate its own 
agricultural sector and improve self -sufficiency, rather than merely providing subsidies. However, 
Australia encourag es Chinese Taipei to consider reducing existing subsidies and support to 
uncompetitive agricultural enterprises.  
4.65.   In its report, Chinese Taipei has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the core values of 
the WTO, and its support for the development and expansion of multilateral trade. Australia 
continues to work closely with Chinese Taipei on MC11 joint statement initiatives, including on 
e-Commerce, services domestic regulation, MSMEs and women’s economic empowerment. Australia 
also welcomes Chinese Tai pei’s 2016 ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
4.66.   Australia commends Chinese Taipei’s strong record of notifications to the WTO, but notes that 
its domestic support notification is currently outstanding and encourages Chinese Taipei to submit 
this in a timely manner.  
4.67.   During the review period, Chinese Taipei has also participated actively in plurilateral fora 
including APEC, the Agreement on Government Procurement (GPA), and the Trade in Services 
Agreement (TiSA). We note Chinese Taipei’s efforts  to identify discrepancies between its own policy 
settings and the standards required by plurilateral trade agreements. These efforts have led Chinese 
Taipei to undertake beneficial internal work to review and liberalize its regulatory systems. While WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 19 - 
 
  recog nizing the obstacles, Australia encourages Chinese Taipei to take further steps towards 
unilateral trade and investment liberalisation wherever possible.  
4.68.   For this review, Australia has submitted a number of questions. We thank Chinese Taipei for 
the answer s provided.  
4.69.   We wish Chinese Taipei a successful and constructive Trade Policy Review.  
GUATEMALA  
4.70.   De acuerdo con el informe presentado por la Secretaría podemos observar que la economía 
de Taipéi Chino desde su último Examen de política comercial ha logrado mantener un balance 
positivo en las diversas áreas macroeconómicas, lo cual ha logrado con la implementación de 
medidas positivas en pro de su crecimiento económico.  
4.71.   Otro tema para destacar durante este periodo de examen es la ratificación del Acuerdo de 
Facilitación del Comercio, buscando el Taipéi Chino la formulación de medidas que promuevan una 
implementación efectiva del mismo.  
4.72.   Con el fin de dar un apoyo integral al sector de la innovación y desarrollo, así como las PYMES, 
se mantuvo la no aplicación de impuestos a las mercancías salientes, así como las concesiones 
fiscales, donaciones o contribuciones que faciliten a estos sectores en su ingreso a nuevos mercados 
comerciales.  
4.73.   Los productos manufacturados se convierten en un elemento principal en su de sarrollo 
económico, el cual representa el 30% de su PIB.  
4.74.   En el área de servicios, a pesar de no ser un sector demandante en la economía interna, se 
convierte en uno de los sectores de mayor exportación. Se ha mejorado la legislación relacionada al 
sector bancario, mejorando el perfil de riesgo en la inversión bancaria.  
4.75.   Dentro del informe de la Secretaría, se resalta el trabajo realizado por el Taipéi Chino en los 
últimos años, con relación al sector del turismo, con la aplicación de su Política de Turismo  2020, en 
la cual se estudia la posibilidad de establecer estrategias que mejoren el mismo, en lo concerniente 
a la promoción y la creación de nuevas rutas que hagan atractiva la visita a su territorio. Con lo cual 
se verán beneficiados el sector laboral, con la generación de más puestos de trabajo, así como el 
sector de las inversiones.  
4.76.   En materia de propiedad intelectual, cabe resaltar que Taipéi Chino ha realizado reformas 
legislativas en materia de patentes, marcas, derecho de autor, con las mismas han  podido fortalecer 
el sistema de propiedad intelectual, así como establecer mecanismos que hacen más eficiente el 
proceso administrativo para la adquisición de estos derechos.  
4.77.   En lo concerniente a las relaciones bilaterales entre Guatemala y Taipéi Chino,  cabe resaltar 
que el Tratado de Libre Comercio firmado entre Guatemala y Taipéi Chino, cumplió doce años de 
estar en vigencia el pasado 1° de julio del presente año, con el cual se ha avanzado en el 
fortalecimiento de las relaciones comerciales bilaterale s. 
4.78.   Guatemala para Taipéi Chino ocupó durante el año 2017, como socio comercial de las 
exportaciones e importaciones, la posición número 62. Mientras que, para ese mismo año, Taipéi 
Chino ocupó para Guatemala la posición 27 para las exportaciones y 22 para las importaciones. Los 
principales productos que Guatemala exporta a Taipéi Chino por orden de importancia son: azúcar, 
café, melazas de azúcar, cartón, camarón y langosta, desperdicios y desechos de metales (chatarra), 
tabaco en rama o sin elaborar, alumi nio, frutas frescas, secas o congeladas, artículos de vestuario.  
4.79.   Dentro de los principales productos que Guatemala importa de Taipéi Chino se encuentran: 
productos diversos de la industria química, vehículos y material de transporte, plásticos y sus 
manufa cturas, textiles, máquinas y aparatos electrónicos, lámina y alambres, juguetes, materiales 
deportivos, muebles de casa, oficina y quirúrgico, prendas de vestuario, neumáticos y tubos, entre 
otros.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 20 - 
 
  4.80.   Para concluir, Guatemala desea a Taipéi Chino que en el ma rco de la aplicación de sus políticas 
económicas y comerciales continúen cosechando éxito en cuanto a su crecimiento económico y 
desarrollo.  
4.81.   Agradecemos las respuestas remitidas a las preguntas que planteamos, las cuales 
remitiremos a capital para su anál isis y comentarios.  
4.82.   Deseamos a la delegación que hoy los representa la conclusión exitosa de este Examen de 
Política Comercial.  
CANADA  
4.83.   Allow me to extend a warm welcome to the delegation of Chinese Taipei, on the occasion of  
its fourth trade policy review. I would like to begin by congratulating Chinese Taipei for its ongoing 
efforts to liberalize its economy and eliminate barriers to trade by supporting a rules -based 
multilateral system.  
4.84.   Since acceding to the WTO in 2002, an d in particular since its last trade policy review in 2014, 
Chinese Taipei has continued to implement key reforms to meet its WTO obligations, and this is 
something Canada would like to commend.  
4.85.   We also applaud the continuous and proactive participation of Chinese Taipei in the WTO, 
underlining its commitment to open, rules -based and predictable international trade. In this regard, 
we note positively that Chinese Taipei is taking an active role in  the MSMEs and eCommerce joint 
initiatives announced on the margins of MC11.  
4.86.   Chinese Taipei also has a good track record in its notifications, and we would like to encourage 
it to continue this good practice by submitting its most recent notifications on agricultural domestic 
support.  
4.87.   As you know, Canada actively supports progressive elements, such as women’s economic 
empowerment, in the context of international trade. We are therefore grateful for Chinese Taipei’s 
support for the Buenos Aires Declaration on Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment and look 
forward to working with Chinese Taipei and other WTO Members to fully implement the declaration.  
4.88.   Chinese Taipei’s commitments to developing the strong fundamentals of an outward -looking 
economy, resulting in the resilience of its export -led economy, and its ability to maintain 
macro -financial stability is praiseworthy. Canada continues to enjoy strong bilateral trade between 
our two economies and support the growth of our people -to-people ties with Chinese Taipei.  
4.89.   Trade Policy Reviews success rely on open and frank dialogue between peers, so given the 
limited time at hand I will focus on three areas of Chinese Taipei’s trade policy, which are of 
importance for Canada: food standards on imports, certificates of origin, and industrial policy.  
4.90.   First, with regards to food standards on imports, as all in this room know Canada is a major 
exporter of agricultural and agri -food products. As with many of the Members present, Canada 
maintains robust regulatory standar ds and food safety measures to ensure we export the highest 
quality agricultural and agri -food products.  
4.91.   The fact that Chinese Taipei continues to have slow processing times for Maximum Residue 
Levels (MRLs) of pesticides on imports and in some circumstan ces a zero tolerance level for 
pesticides on imports is of concern to us. We encourage Chinese Taipei to adopt a science -based 
risk approach to MRLs in order to facilitate market access, such as the CODEX standards. We would 
also welcome clarifications on Chinese Taipei’s amendments to ban genetically -modified food in 
school meals, and its decision to extend its 2016 New Agricultural Policy’s "Big Granary Project" to 
apply only to non -GMO grain products.  
4.92.   Second, Canada supports the World Bank’s efforts to r eport on the "ease of doing business" 
within domestic economies in their flagship publication Doing Business. The 2018 edition reports 
that organizations operating in Chinese Taipei can now issue their own certificates of origin. While 
this may decrease pr ocessing times, we wonder how Chinese Taipei intends to maintain the integrity WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 21 - 
 
  of electronic certificates, including what measures are planned in the case of fraudulent issuance of 
certificates of origin.  
4.93.   Third, in light of our goal of increasing trade an d economic ties with Chinese Taipei, we 
welcome further clarity on certain cornerstone pieces of its industrial policies, including its "Five Plus 
Two" Innovative Industries Plan, which seeks to increase cross -industry integration to improve input 
producti vity. Such enabling mechanisms should allow for domestic industries to be more competitive 
without creating barriers for foreign exporters, which we see as a positive measure.  
4.94.   Chinese Taipei has indicated that it seeks to work with international partners t o cooperate in 
seven economic sectors. We welcome clarity on potential incentives and timelines for their 
implementation to encourage private enterprise to increase trade in these sectors. In addition, 
following the launch of the Forward -looking Infrastruc ture Development Program in 2017 and the 
growing focus on infrastructure development, it is our hope that Chinese Taipei will review its 
procurement methods and procedures to ensure transparency and fairness to all WTO parties.  
4.95.   In conclusion, Canada would like to express our sincere thanks to Chinese Taipei for engaging 
in this Trade Policy Review, as it is an integral function of the WTO and an important mechanism to 
improve transparency and accountability amongst its Members. We take this opportunity to 
commend the use of the alternate timelines for this TPR. Based on Chinese Taipei’s impressive 
economic achievements to date, we believe it has both the capacity and the motivation to improve 
its trade policies and be a model economy within the rules -based, global economic order.  
4.96.   In this regard, we are confident that the exchanges of views during this review will provide 
useful and constructive suggestions for Chinese Taipei – and we wish our colleagues a successful 
Trade Policy Review.  
SWITZERLAND  
4.97.   Chinese Ta ipei has been an active Member of the WTO whose participation in virtually all 
bodies of the Organization is highly appreciated by all of us. This positive role is underpinned by a 
good record on transparency with only a handful of notifications still pend ing. 
4.98.   It gives me pleasure to note that the economic relations between Switzerland and 
Chinese  Taipei continue to intensify. Bilateral trade was given a renewed impetus in the years 
following the accession of the Separate Customs Territory to the WTO in 200 2. The last two years 
have seen another significant increase, especially when it comes to the importation into Switzerland 
of products originating in the Customs Territory. Frequently imported goods are mobile phones and 
machines, whereas we mostly export pharmaceuticals and precious metals. There has also been an 
uptick in Swiss investment in Chinese Taipei. Swiss companies operating there generated well over 
17’000 jobs.  
4.99.   We see even more potential in the economy of Chinese Taipei. Few Members can boast an  
equal array of solid economic fundamentals. Firmly embedded in global value chains, Chinese Taipei 
has more or less succeeded in holding its favourable position on the global competitiveness indices. 
Its GDP growth does fluctuate a bit but remains persist ently in positive territory. Inflation is low and 
the traditionally modest unemployment rate has managed to go down even further during the review 
period. Most importantly, the current account generates surpluses as the Territory’s savings rate 
generously exceeds domestic investment. In light of this, Chinese Taipei's fiscal position is sound, 
thereby giving it sufficient fiscal space to feel comfortable about engaging in reforms to secure the 
economy’s future.  
4.100.   We get a sense that Chinese Taipei has indeed begun in investing in the future. A sizeable 
long-term Construction Project is to contribute to upgrading the economy’s infrastructure. Additional 
investment is to be channelled into industrial innovation programmes. One wonders whether the 
fiscal cushions  might enable the authorities to loosen its dependence on the tariff as a significant 
source of tax revenue. It will be interesting to observe to what extent the ongoing labour market 
reforms will create more flexible framework conditions, which are conduc ive to meeting emerging 
challenges. The enhancement of productivity will be key to maintaining the Customs Territory’s 
wealth and prosperity against the backdrop of demographic ageing.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 22 - 
 
  4.101.   Experience by many countries shows that one way of improving productiv ity rates is by 
attracting foreign capital. Inbound investment can inject new and innovative ideas of doing business. 
Often it stiffens competition in the recipient economy and leads to better overall performance. We 
note that Chinese Taipei intends to con tinue its policy of attracting FDI. But the political process of 
creating more favourable conditions for FDI seems to have stalled. Members will continue to observe 
future developments to see if a simple post -investment registration system might see the li ght of 
day. 
4.102.   One factor limiting investor’s choice is the importance of state -owned enterprises in the 
economy of Chinese Taipei. Companies owned by the public sector appear to be assuming an even 
greater weight in economic life than in the past. It is ques tionable, though, whether these types of 
companies usually belong to the more productive sectors of the economy. Moves to privatize can be 
part and parcel of a state -of-the-art economic policy aimed at revamping productivity.   
4.103.   The Secretariat’s report has  observed that the public sector – for better or for worse - plays 
an active role in a myriad of ways in the economy of the Separate Customs Territory. Many activities 
may benefit from special incentives. The question may be asked to what extent they might  be 
detrimental to a level -playing field for all economic actors by being selective or even misguided. 
Competition is best assured by offering the same framework conditions for all. On the other hand, 
we observed that Chinese Taipei has made great strides in strengthening its competition policy.  
4.104.   It has also been pointed out that the Chinese Taipei’s tariff structure is complicated and the 
handling of certain goods at customs may be cumbersome. We would like to thank the delegation 
of Chinese Taipei for havi ng provided information on how there are additional plans for simplifying 
things for exporters and importers alike. Just as we are grateful to our colleagues from Chinese 
Taipei for having provided timely and comprehensive answers to all of our questions w ithin the very 
useful alternative timeline.   
4.105.   Before concluding, let me also highlight the Customs Territory’s commitment with respect to 
the reform of fossil fuel subsidies. Switzerland wishes Chinese Taipei a successful outcome of this 
Trade Policy Revie w. 
NEW  ZEALAND  
4.106.   Chinese Taipei is a significant Asia -Pacific economy, and is an important economic partner 
for New Zealand. Two -way trade is substantial, and is underpinned by the Agreement between 
New Zealand and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, P enghu, Kinmen and Matsu on 
Economic Cooperation or ANZTEC, which entered into force in December 2013. Since ANZTEC 
entered into force two -way goods and trade has increased by over 20%. Chinese Taipei is now our 
12th largest trading partner with two -way tra de exceeding two billion dollars.  
4.107.   We appreciate that Chinese Taipei shares New Zealand’s strong commitment to the 
rules-based multilateral trading system, which we see as essential to our collective future prosperity. 
New Zealand and Chinese Taipei enjoy close collaboration across a range of WTO work streams. 
Chinese Taipei’s commitment across the WTO system is evidenced by its ratification of the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement in 2015, as well as its active participation in the Information Technology 
Agreem ent II, the Government Procurement Agreement, and the Environmental Goods Agreement 
negotiations, to mention a few.  
4.108.   Chinese Taipei continues to demonstrate this commitment by participating in several joint 
statement processes to come out of MC11, includin g on trade and women’s economic empowerment, 
services domestic regulation, e -commerce and MSMEs.  
4.109.   New Zealand emphasizes the importance of transparency in the WTO, and therefore in up 
to date notifications. Accordingly, we commend Chinese Taipei on its not ification record in many 
areas, but encourage bringing all notifications up to date, including in the area of agricultural 
domestic support, which I note Chinese Taipei has indicated it will provide in the coming months.  
4.110.   New Zealand commends Chinese Taipei for the positive strides it has made during the review 
period. We have noted the recent advancements Chinese Taipei has made in terms of its trade WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 23 - 
 
  facilitation and customs clearance mechanisms, which are having a practic al impact on the ease of 
doing business.  
4.111.   In particular, we welcome Chinese Taipei’s initiatives on pursuing trade policy that 
contributes to environmental protection and sustainable development. New Zealand thanks Chinese 
Taipei’s for its commitment to adv ancing Fossil Fuel Subsidy Reform at the WTO and its support for 
the Ministerial statement in Buenos Aires. In the area of fisheries subsidies, we encourage 
Chinese  Taipei to continue strengthening its legal framework to implement stronger actions on 
deter ring IUU fishing activities.  
4.112.   New Zealand is a strong supporter of the Trade Policy Review Mechanism. These instruments 
play an essential role in allowing Members to better understand and review the policies and practices 
of other WTO Members. New Zealand a ppreciates Chinese Taipei’s continued commitment to the 
multilateral trading system and we welcome the positive steps that Chinese Taipei has taken in the 
four years since the last trade policy review. We look forward to further discussion this week, 
including on the issues raised in our questions. We wish Chinese Taipei a successful Trade Policy 
Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.113.   Chinese Taipei is very much linked to the global economy and it has remained one of the 
world’s most competitive economies in the last few years. On  the other hand, the economy’s reliance 
on external markets has also made Chinese Taipei more vulnerable to external shocks.  
4.114.   Therefore, as the world economy has experienced a general slowdown since the last Trade 
Policy Review, the relative growth of the Chinese Taipei’s economy has been moving at a slower 
pace than before. Nevertheless, Chinese Taipei has shown resilience and was able to maintain a 
steady, albeit smaller, growth of its economy, bolstered in part by successful governmental stimulus 
actions .  
4.115.   In the WTO, Chinese Taipei plays a pragmatic and positive role, commensurate with the 
importance of international trade for its economy. It is noteworthy that Chinese Taipei has never 
been a respondent in a WTO dispute settlement case, but has recently increased its profile in this 
area by initiating three disputes, all of them dealing with trade remedies, within the period of review.  
4.116.   With regard to notifications, while Chinese Taipei has mostly complied with its obligations, 
Brazil would like to expres s concerns with regard to notifications on domestic support. The last period 
for which there has been a notification is 2011 -2012. We would urge Chinese Taipei’s authorities to 
provide the relevant notifications as soon as possible.  
4.117.   Brazil would also like to recall it has submitted questions regarding Chinese Taipei’s practices 
in the SPS area, particularly regarding maximum residue levels, and is grateful for the written 
responses provided, which will be carefully reviewed.  
4.118.   Brazil remains Chinese Taipei’s main trading partner in Latin America and is the third source 
of the Chinese Taipei’s food imports and agricultural products in general. Brazil’s main exports to 
Chinese Taipei are, besides food products, iron ore and crude oil, and its main imports are in tegrated 
circuits and transmitters. Trade flows between Chinese Taipei and Brazil have remained stable and 
evenly distributed between 2014 and 2017, reaching an amount of US$3.8 billion in 2017. With 
regard to investments, the tech company AOC has manufact uring plants in the Manaus Free Trade 
Zone. In 2017 Cal -Comp (Kinpo) group and the Qualcomm/ASE Group invested almost 
US$300  million in Brazil. Overall, however, bilateral investment flows are still below their full 
potential and could be further increased  in the coming years with the deepening of bilateral relations.  
4.119.   Let me conclude by wishing the delegation of Chinese Taipei a successful conclusion of this 
Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 24 - 
 
  KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  
4.120.   Chinese Taipei economy remains strong, open and comp etitive. Its GDP annual average rate 
for the period 2014 -17 reached 2.3%, and is expected to continue to grow by close to 4% in 2018 
and 2019  
4.121.   Chinese Taipei has undertaken structural reforms to increase efficiency and competitiveness 
and broaden diversity  within its economy. These reforms included several areas such as fiscal and 
monetary policies, trade facilitation, taxation, investment, competition policy and intellectual 
property rights.  
4.122.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia commends Chinese Taipei for its devel opment plan for the 
period 2017 -2020, the 5+2 Industrial Innovation Plan, the New Southbound Policy and the 
Forward -Looking Infrastructure Development Programme. All these efforts confirm the strong 
determination of Chinese Taipei to enhance the openness o f its economy to international trade and 
its integration into the global value chains.  
4.123.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia submitted some questions to Chinese Taipei regarding these 
programs and reforms and will be happy to receive Chinese Taipei’s replies to thes e questions.  
4.124.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Chinese Taipei are important trading partners, the value 
of trade exchange between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Chinese Taipei has reached US$7 
billion.  
4.125.   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has historically been the largest supplier of oil and petroleum 
and chemical products to Chinese Taipei and imports different products, including information 
technology equipment, spare parts and accessories, machinery and textile products from Chinese 
Taipei.  
4.126.   Since joining the WT O, Chinese Taipei plays an active role in strengthening the multilateral 
trading system.  
4.127.   I wish the delegation of Chinese Taipei a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
COLOMBIA  
4.128.   Destacamos el buen desempeño económico del Taipéi Chino en el periodo de examen , con 
un crecimiento promedio de 2,3% del PIB, bajos niveles de desempleo e inflación, y un significativo 
nivel de ahorro como proporción del PIB.  
4.129.   Cuatro años desde de su último Examen de política comercial, resaltamos que el Taipéi Chino 
mantiene una pol ítica comercial abierta y orientada hacia el sector externo, que reflejan una 
economía dinámica y altamente integrada al comercio global, y que ha sorteado positivamente las 
dificultades de la demanda internacional. El Taipéi Chino es también un importante  inversionista a 
nivel global que promueve la Inversión extranjera como motor para su crecimiento económico.  
4.130.   Observamos también que ha venido adoptando diversas reformas internas orientadas a 
facilitar el intercambio comercial y promover la inversión Dentr o de estos se encuentran la 
implementación de los compromisos derivados del Acuerdo de Facilitación del comercio, en donde 
este miembro ha marcado una pauta en el uso y mutuo reconocimiento de la figura de Operadores 
Económicos Autorizados. Así mismo, regi stramos que en el ámbito regulatorio ha buscado armonizar 
los reglamentos y normas técnicas y las certificaciones con normas y estándares internacionales.  
4.131.   En cuanto a su participación en la OMC, se destaca el rol constructivo y propositivo que ha 
tenido el Taipéi Chino en los Órganos Regulares, y su compromiso con fortalecer el sistema 
multilateral de comercio El informe de la Secretaría señala un buen cumpl imiento con los 
compromisos de notificaciones si bien hay algunas pendientes sobre ayuda interna en el comité de 
agricultura.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 25 - 
 
  4.132.   Así mismo, reconocemos la transparencia y previsibilidad de la estructura arancelaria y sus 
esfuerzos para eliminar las dispersio nes, aunque aún se mantienen algunas crestas arancelarias y 
aranceles restrictivos en ciertos productos del sector agrícola.  
4.133.   Resaltamos la participación activa del Taipéi Chino en varias negociaciones en curso y su 
compromiso constructivo en iniciativas de  liberalización comercial, tanto en bienes como en 
servicios, como se dio en el caso del Acuerdo sobre Tecnologías de la Información. Así mismo, se 
destaca su participación activa y contribuciones a discusiones en la organización relacionadas con el 
comerc io electrónico y la economía digital en general.  
4.134.   Estos aportes del Taipéi Chino son consecuentes con las políticas sobre innovación y 
desarrollo y modernización industrial, que dan cuenta de la importancia de una economía basada en 
el conocimiento.  
4.135.   El com ercio entre Colombia y el Taipéi Chino ha sido creciente en los años recientes. Las 
exportaciones colombianas crecieron 120% en 2017, con respecto al año anterior, y 35% de estas 
ventas corresponden a bienes no mineros. Resaltamos el incremento en las expo rtaciones de 
productos de la agroindustria, como el café y sus preparaciones, cueros, pieles y flores.  
4.136.   A partir de los informes preparados, Colombia presentó preguntas sobre diversos aspectos 
que consideramos de interés en las políticas económicas y comer ciales, como los programas para 
mejorar la competitividad y la productividad en el sector industrial, los incentivos a la innovación, y 
las medidas sobre facilitación del comercio como la aplicación de mecanismos de mutuo 
reconocimiento de Operadores Econó micos Autorizados.  
4.137.   Agradecemos las respuestas presentadas, las cuales revisaremos en detalle.  
4.138.   Finalizamos esta intervención deseándole al Taipéi Chino y a su delegación un exitoso 
examen de sus políticas comerciales, así como agradeciendo a su equipo en Ginebra por las 
excelentes relaciones de trabajo y cooperación con nuestra Misión.  
THAILAND  
4.139.   Thailand and Chinese Taipei have maintained the close and cordial economic relations, 
underpinned by strong trade and investment flows. In 2017, total trade between  the two economies 
amounted to US$12.2 billion, expanding by 16.2% from 2016. Chinese Taipei was the fifth largest 
supplying market of Thailand, with total imports reached US$8.2 billion, and the nineteenth largest 
export destination, with total exports of  US$4 billion. With respect to investment, Chinese Taipei 
continued to be Thailand’s fifth largest external source of foreign direct investment valued at 
US$697  million.  
4.140.   Thailand appreciates the commendable performance of Chinese Taipei’s open economy sinc e 
its last Trade Policy Review. Its integration into the world economy and global value chains has 
indicated the increasingly significant role of trade in its economy, amounting to 117.7% of GDP. 
Chinese Taipei has maintained its position among the world's  most competitive economies, with high 
living standards. Chinese Taipei has implemented transparent and predictable trade policies and has 
taken steps to continually improve its regulatory framework and business environment. We believe 
that these efforts w ill contribute to sustainable and resilient growth to Chinese Taipei’s export -led 
economy.  
4.141.   Thailand welcomes structural reforms in the areas of trade facilitation, taxation, competition 
policy and intellectual property rights undertaken during the review p eriod. In addition to Chinese 
Taipei's development plan for the period 2017 -2020, key economic strategies have been 
implemented to drive innovation, promote regional cooperation and meet long -term infrastructural 
needs. These initiatives will certainly pro vide a new engine for economic growth and bring 
tremendous benefits to its trading partners.  
4.142.   Thailand very much values the proactive role of Chinese Taipei in the WTO. Chinese Taipei 
has maintained a strong record of notifications to the WTO, although an u p to date notification on 
domestic support to agriculture is pending. Chinese Taipei ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement 
in 2015 and has implemented the ITA Expansion Agreement. Chinese Taipei’s continuous supports WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 26 - 
 
  for E-commerce and MSMEs as well as  unilateral trade preferences granting to LDCs also deserve 
positive mention.  
4.143.   In this review, Thailand submitted a set of questions, covering the policies and measures of 
our interests such as a post -investment registration mechanism, an establishment of b ranches of 
overseas banks, price support -guaranteed purchases of rice and online trading platform for 
agricultural products. We would like to thank Chinese Taipei for timely responses to our questions 
and will study them in detail with great interest.  
4.144.   Thailand has always enjoyed excellent working relations and cooperation with Permanent 
Representative Dr. Cyrus Chu's very capable team in Geneva. We look forward to continuing this, in 
our common goal of upholding the multilateral trading system. We wish Chin ese Taipei a successful 
forth Trade Policy Review.  
ARGENTINA  
4.145.   La Argentina observa con gran interés que, desde el anterior examen de las políticas 
comerciales en 2014, Taipéi Chino ha mantenido sus principales variables macroeconómicas 
relativamente estable s.  
4.146.   Con respecto al comercio bilateral, este superó los 550 millones de dólares EE.UU. en 2017, 
aumentando un 11,6% con respecto al año anterior. La tendencia positiva se mantuvo en el primer 
bimestre del año 2018, con más de 110 millones de dólares EE.UU.  de comercio bilateral total; lo 
que se tradujo en un incremento del 44,5% respecto a los meses de enero -febrero de 2017.  
4.147.   Los principales productos de exportación argentinos a Taipéi Chino son: el maíz en grano, 
las pieles y cueros y los camarones y lango stinos, los cuales representaron más del 56% del comercio 
bilateral en 2017. En cuanto a las importaciones desde Taipéi Chino, predominaron los bienes 
electrónicos y tecnológicos (receptores -decodificadores de señales digitalizadas de video, placas de 
memo ria, dispositivos de almacenamiento de datos, procesadores y controladores).  
4.148.   Entre las reformas emprendidas, cabe destacar las vinculadas con la facilitación del 
comercio, tributación y política de la competencia. Son importantes, asimismo, los esfuerzos p ara 
promover la inversión extranjera directa (IED) y mejorar el entorno reglamentario interno de los 
negocios.  
4.149.   En materia de reformas orientadas al desarrollo, se destaca la puesta en marcha del Plan de 
Desarrollo Cuatrienal 2017 -2020, la Nueva Política Orientada al Sur, y el Plan de Innovación 
Industrial 5+2. De manera similar, saludamos las reformas orientadas a prevenir la pesca ilegal, no 
declarada y no reglamentada.  
4.150.   Deseamos resaltar que, durante el período objeto de examen, el Taipéi Chino ratificó el 
Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio, adoptó modificaciones que aclaran la legislación en materia 
de aduan as, mejoró la integración de las operaciones en línea con la ventanilla única para aduanas, 
puertos y comercio, facilitó el intercambio de certificados de origen, e introdujo servicios de 
despacho de aduanas agilizados. Notamos, adicionalmente, que el marc o reglamentario de la política 
de la competencia ha experimentado reformas de mayor envergadura.  
4.151.   La Argentina sigue con atención la protección concedida a numerosos productos agrícolas 
mediante aranceles elevados. Estos aranceles son, en promedio, más de 3  de veces superiores a los 
concedidos a productos industriales (17,8% para los productos agrícolas frente a un 5,1% para los 
no agrícolas en el año 2018). Asimismo, sigue habiendo picos arancelarios aplicables a los productos 
agrícolas, que en algunos caso s superan el 1.000%. Nos preocupa, también, el uso de diversos 
mecanismos de apoyo y el incremento de la aplicación de contingentes arancelarios, que pasó del 
47,1% al 56,5% en el lapso del período 2015 -2016.  
4.152.   En el marco de este Examen de política comerci al, hemos presentado preguntas vinculadas 
con la Ley de Aduanas de Taipéi Chino, el registro de importadores y exportadores de su Oficina de 
Comercio Exterior, la fijación de valores máximos de los derechos de trasmisión, y el procedimiento 
legislativo par a modificar aranceles. Las respuestas proporcionadas serán analizadas por nuestras 
autoridades en Buenos Aires.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 27 - 
 
  4.153.   Finalizando, y al tiempo de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de 
intercambiar elementos de juicio y consideraciones so bre las políticas y prácticas comerciales de 
Taipéi Chino, permítanos señalar, una vez más, la relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en 
todos sus aspectos; y desear a las autoridades de Taipéi Chino, la exitosa conclusión del presente 
Examen.  
HONDU RAS 
4.154.   Con Taipéi Chino nos unen fuertes lazos de amistad y cooperación que datan desde hace 
más de 77 años y actualmente la relación es cada vez más sólida y estable y continuamos trabajando 
por temas de interés común en los distintos planos incluidos los in tereses en esta casa.  
4.155.   Desde muchos años, la Misión Técnica de Taipéi Chino viene ofreciendo en nuestro país 
proyectos de asistencia técnica en distintos rubros del bienestar social, la salud, la educación, el 
desarrollo agropecuario, la medicina, la promoción del comercio y los intercambios culturales, entre 
otros.  
4.156.   En el campo educativo, el Taipéi Chino ha ofrecido en los últimos años muchas oportunidades 
de becas para los jóvenes hondureños. Cada año entre 30 y 40 alumnos logran la gran oportunidad 
de estudiar en el Taipéi Chino, aprender su idioma y abrir su visión en otro continente.  
4.157.   Queremos destacar la implementación del Proyecto OTOP (One Town One Product) 
auspiciado por el Taipéi Chino, el cual tiene como fin volver más competitivas las artesan ías 
hondureñas y que ha tenido resultados muy notables, beneficiando a más de 900  emprendedores 
de diferentes bienes en 27 municipios a nivel nacional, al generar productos con mayor valor 
agregado que incluyen elementos de identidad cultural y vinculados con nuestra visión de país y el 
plan de nación.  
4.158.   Adicionalmente, la empresa azucarera Taiwan Sugar Company, que es un consorcio 
empresarial en el rubro de la Biotecnología, ha realizado varias visitas a nuestro país para explorar 
el proyecto de comercializ ar aguacate a gran escala.  
4.159.   Al mismo tiempo, el Consorcio Dong JYU Group haciendo eco al programa Presidencial 
Honduras 20/20 realiza inversiones en vivienda, ganadería, minería, procesamiento de alimentos, 
turismo y acuicultura. Otras empresas como Wenhua  International, Universal Plastic and Pack, Full 
House Electrical Switches y Speco Honduras han realizado inversiones importantes en nuestro país.  
4.160.   Nos complace saber que actualmente se pude degustar una buena taza de café hondureño 
en muchos lugares del Ta ipéi Chino incluido el tren de alta velocidad.  
4.161.   Taipéi Chino es un mercado potencial para Honduras y tal como lo señalan los informes 
actualmente, nuestra relación bilateral se enmarca dentro Tratado de Libre Comercio entre El 
Salvador, Honduras y el Taipéi  Chino vigente para Honduras y Taipéi Chino, desde el 15 de julio de 
2008 y bajo ese parámetro se podido intensificar nuestro comercio por lo que en el 2017 exportamos 
más de 57 millones de dólares EE.UU. en camarones, café, fundiciones de hierro, azúcar d e caña, 
papel o cartón para reciclar, entre otros, e importamos más de 69 millones de dólares EE.UU. en 
tereftalato de Etileno, leches saborizadas y partes y accesorios de vehículos por mencionar algunos.  
4.162.   En lo que respecta a los informes de políticas pres entados, destacamos el plan de desarrollo 
nacional cuatrienal (2017 -2020), la nueva política orientada al sur, el plan de innovación industrial 
5+2, así como la Ley de Desarrollo y Experimentación Innovadora de la Tecnología Financiera.  
4.163.   Al mismo tiempo, de stacamos los esfuerzos realizados por el Taipéi Chino en la introducción 
de la política de transición energética para reducir las emisiones de gases de efecto invernadero y 
la adopción de políticas de reforma para dar cumplimiento a la Agenda 2030 para el Desarrollo 
Sostenible y los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible (ODS).  
4.164.   Notamos que el Taipéi Chino ocupa el puesto:  
• 15 de los 140 en el ranking de competitividad;  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 28 - 
 
  • 31 entre 176 economías en el Índice de Percepción de la Corrupción (CPI) de Transparencia 
Internacional;  
• ocupo uno de los primeros lugares en el Índice de Transparencia Aduanera del Global Enabling 
Trade Report; y  
• lugar 15 en el Informe Doing Business.  
4.165.   Adicionalmente, el Taipéi Chino es el primer productor mundial de parpada del Pacífico, y 
está entre los principales proveedores mundiales de mero y tilapia.  
4.166.   En el marco de este Examen nuestro país formuló preguntas, por lo que agradeceremos sus 
respuestas las cuales transmitiremos a la capital para su análisis.  
4.167.   Honduras felicita a las autoridades d e Territorio Aduanero Distinto de Taiwán, Penghu, 
Kinmen y Matsu por sus importantes logros durante el período de examen y les deseamos siempre 
el mayor de los éxitos.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.168.   Korea and Chinese Taipei are currently benefiting from a robust and st rongly interlinked 
economic relationship. In 2017, Chinese Taipei was Korea's 7th largest trading partner, while Korea 
stands as Chinese Taipei's 5th largest trading partner. Our total bilateral trade volume has remained 
stable at a level of US$30 billion since 2010. In addition, such bilateral trade is complementary in 
nature. Intra -industry trade forms a large part of our bilateral trade. As of 2017, half of the top ten 
trading goods of the two Members consisted of the same products such as semiconductors  and 
chemicals.  
4.169.   As the Secretariat Report indicated, thanks to the relatively strong fundamental and well 
developed outward looking economy, Chinese Taipei has maintained macro -financial stability and 
demonstrated the resilience of its export -led economy. We believe that Chinese Taipei will continue 
to address the challenges that have arisen through its ongoing reforms.  
4.170.   During the review period, Chinese Taipei has continued to pursue open and interconnected 
trade at the bilateral, regional and multilateral  level. In particular, Chinese Taipei has been a strong 
supporter of the multilateral trade system and implemented its obligations under the WTO. It has 
ratified and implemented the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) and has maintained a strong 
record of notifications to the WTO.  
4.171.   My delegation has submitted, albeit somewhat late, our written questions on the following 
two points. First, Chinese Taipei has persisted with a restrictive measure under which Korean 
shipping companies are not allowed to navig ate the Japan -Chinese Taipei route, despite allowing 
other Member's shipping companies to pass through the route. This issue was raised during the 
previous TPR meeting. Second, Korean companies claim that they are being excluded from bidding 
for the railwa y project by Chinese Taipei.  
4.172.   My delegation looks forward to receiving replies to these issues in due course.  
4.173.   Korea hopes to continuously develop our economic relationship with Chinese Taipei. In 
addition, we expect Chinese Taipei to continue to contribute towards strengthening the multilateral 
trading system.  
4.174.   With this, we would like to express our deep appreciation to the Chinese Taipei delegation 
for its hard work and wish the delegation every success in this TPR.  
PHILIPPINES  
4.175.   Chinese Taipei became the Phi lippines’ 8th major trading partner and second largest source 
of investments in 2017. Total bilateral trade between our two economies reached US$7.19 billion in 
2017, with semiconductor devices and digital monolithic integrated circuits as our top traded 
commodities. Philippine exports to Chinese Taipei rose by 7.15%, from US$2.13 billion in 2016 to 
US$2.28 billion in 2017, while our imports from Chinese Taipei declined slightly from US$5.18 billion 
in 2016 to US$4.91 billion in 2017.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 29 - 
 
  4.176.   Chinese Taipei has be en through a cyclical growth path since its last Trade Policy Review in 
2014, with an annual average GDP growth rate of 2.3% for the period 2014 -2017. However, due to 
its relatively strong fundamentals and well -developed outward -looking economy, Chinese Ta ipei was 
able to maintain macro -financial stability and ensure the resilience of its export -led economy. The 
openness of its economy to international trade, and its integration into the world economy and global 
value chains, continue to be reflected by the  steadily high ratio of its trade in goods and services to 
GDP, which stood at 117.7% in 2017.  
4.177.   Chinese Taipei is an active Member of the WTO since its accession in January 2002. It is a 
signatory to the Civil Aircraft and Information Technology Agreements , as well as a party to the 
Government Procurement Agreement. It has also ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the 
Protocol Amending the TRIPS Agreement. At MC11, it has joined the Ministerial Statements on 
Electronic Commerce, Services Domestic R egulation, Trade and Women’s Economic Empowerment, 
Fossil Fuel Reform, and the Declaration in Support of the Multilateral Trading System. Chinese Taipei 
is also an active member of the Friends of MSMEs Group signing the Joint Declaration on the 
Establishme nt of a WTO Informal Work Programme for MSMEs.  
4.178.   Similar to the Philippines, Chinese Taipei’s economy is also largely driven by small - and 
medium -sized enterprises (SMEs). These SMEs benefit from specific production assistance measures 
through the support o f the Small and Medium Enterprise Administration (SMEA) of the Ministry of 
Economic Affairs (MOEA). SMEA aims to create a healthy environment for the development and 
growth of SMEs by helping them improve their operation environments, promoting mutual 
cooperation, and assisting them in striving for growth with their own efforts.  
4.179.   The Philippines recognizes Chinese Taipei’s Five -Plus-Two Industries Innovation Plan, which 
serves as its primary industrial development policy that has identified seven (5+2) inno vative 
industrial pillars. This Plan seeks to transform industrial innovation, moving towards high -value -
added, service -oriented and solutions -oriented business models.  
4.180.   The Philippines has submitted some advanced written questions on the Chinese Taipei tra de 
policy review reports, and we kindly thank them in advance for their written responses.  
4.181.   In closing, the Philippines looks forward to further enhancing the mutually beneficial 
economic relations between our two economies in the appropriate fora.  
VIET  NAM 
4.182.   Since the last Trade Policy Review in 2014, Chinese Taipei has remained one of the most 
competitive economies in the world, mainly fuelled by a strong manufacturing sector and persistent 
export -led growth strategy.  
4.183.   Viet Nam wishes to highlight the advanc ements Chinese Taipei has made during the review 
period. Structural reforms in various areas, such as trade facilitation, taxation, competition policy 
and intellectual property rights, have helped stabilise the economy and the recovery is bringing 
about po sitive achievements with significant GDP growth, controlled inflation, and decreased 
unemployment rate.  
4.184.   We really appreciate that although protectionism is rising in some parts of the world, Chinese 
Taipei retains its outward -looking attitude and commitme nt for strong integration into the world 
economy. The openness of the territory to foreign investment, reinforced by introduction of new 
incentives and facilitation measures, continues to guarantee its key position in the robust and 
dynamic global and regi onal supply chains.  
4.185.   Regarding the bilateral trade and investment relations between Viet Nam and Chinese Taipei, 
we are very pleased that Chinese Taipei is a longstanding economic partner of Viet Nam. Our 
economic cooperation is strong and has much potentia l to advance. Chinese Taipei is Viet Nam’s 
fifth largest trade partner in 2017. The trade volume between Viet Nam and Chinese Taipei reached 
US$15.28 billion last year, up by 13.1% as compared to that of 2016.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 30 - 
 
  4.186.   In terms of investment, Chinese Taipei ranks fourth out of 126 economies which pour 
investment into Viet Nam. The investment of Chinese Taipei’s investors covers numerous sectors, 
ranging from manufacturing to real estate and services.  
4.187.   The bilateral trade relation between Viet Nam and Chinese Taipei can achieve better 
development outcomes if certain impediments are duly addressed. Those obstructions mainly come 
from current regulations of Chinese Taipei that directly affect export products of Viet Nam and have 
raised serious concerns to our farmers an d enterprises. Therefore, we would like to draw our Chinese 
Taipei colleagues’ great attention to the following issues.  
4.188.   Firstly, Chinese Taipei is kindly requested to promptly review its sanitary and phytosanitary 
measures to assure its conformity with int ernational standards and regulations. Unnecessary trade 
obstacles should be removed and appropriate trade facilitation measures should be made to advance 
trade of agricultural products. Review report should be sent to Chinese Taipei’s concerned trading 
partners.  
4.189.   Secondly, we urge Chinese Taipei to speed up the review of pest risk analysis reports of such 
fresh fruits as rambutan, mango, lychee, longan and pomelo, whose registration application has 
been submitted so that these products of Viet Nam can soon be exported to Chinese Taipei.  
4.190.   Thirdly, we kindly request Chinese Taipei to implement the mutually agreed solutions 
regarding the examination and verification of origin of Vietnamese agricultural products, inform 
Vietnamese competent authorities in advanc e of the intended verification and share the results with 
us, and clear consignments if no infringement is confirmed.  
4.191.   Viet Nam appreciates the active and very constructive engagement of Chinese Taipei in 
support of the multilateral trading system and the positive contributions of Permanent 
Representative Dr. C. Y. Cyrus Chu and his able team. Chinese Taipei has proven to be a reliable 
partner in the ongoing work and multilateral negotiations of the WTO.  
4.192.   In conclusion, we wish Chinese Taipei every success in its economic and social development 
and the delegation of Chinese Taipei a successful Trade Policy Review.  
REPUBLIC  OF MOLDOVA  
4.193.   The Republic of Moldova is pleased to note Chinese Taipei's endeavour to support an open 
and integrated intonational trade and  appreciates the proven commitment to build a strong trade 
policy based on regional connectivity and economic growth. The wise choice of economic policies has 
maintained the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu's economy 
relativel y stable since its last Trade Policy Review in 2014.  
4.194.   Chinese Taipei is now considered one of the most competitive economies in the world with 
one of the highest living standards. The monetary reform undertaken in 2014 has stimulated the 
growth and stabilit y of the financial environment. The World Bank Doing Business Index ranks 
Chinese Taipei's economy on place 15. As of March 2017, Chinese Taipei is the fifth largest holder 
of foreign exchange reserves Also, the decrease of the Gross external debt from 33. 5% of GDP in 
2014 to 32.5% in 2016 is praiseworthy.  
4.195.   We note with satisfaction that the business environment of Chinese Taipei is improving and 
appreciate the measures taken in order to promote reforms in support of SMEs, to encourage 
start-ups and entrepre neurs and alleviate the restrictions on the recruitment of overseas 
professionals. Also, we commend the increase in transparency and public participation in the process 
of trade policy formulation that has been observed since the establishment of an online  public policy 
platform.  
4.196.   The efforts undertaken by the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and 
Matsu in support of trade facilitation are much appreciated: the notification of the WTO Trade 
Facilitation Agreement in 2015, the adoption of t he clarifying amendments to the Customs Act, the 
enhancement of integration of online operations with the Customs -Port-Trade Single Window, 
facilitation in the exchange of certificates of origin, and the introduction of expeditious customs 
clearance servic es. WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 31 - 
 
  4.197.   We also appreciate the conclusion of two new FTAs with Singapore and New Zeeland, as well 
as the Cooperation Agreement with Paraguay. Efforts to expand RTAs contributed to the reduction 
of the simple average preferential tariff rate from half to less than a third of the MFN average applied 
tariff rate. We are confident that the Chinese Taipei will continue to increase its network of RTAs and 
play a significant role in the global trading system.  
4.198.   The Republic of Moldova is pleased to observe an outstandi ng record of notifications to the 
WTO and we are looking forward to an up -to-date notification on domestic support to agriculture in 
due time.  
4.199.   Also, we note a slight decrease of the simple average applied MFN tariff rate from 7.8% in 
2013 to 7.2% in 2018, as a result of a reduction of average ad valorem equivalent (AVEs) rates, the 
implementation of the expansion of the Information Technology Agreement (ITA) and tariff 
nomenclature changes. All tariff rates/lines are bound and binding commitments relating t o the ITA 
expansion are to be fully implemented by 2021.  
4.200.   Currently, the trade flows between Moldova and Chinese Taipei are fairly modest. But we 
hope to see further expansion of exports of Moldovan products to the Chinese Taipei market, 
including wine, tex tiles and organic products.  
4.201.   We look forward to continue further strengthening our economic relations with the Separate 
Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu across WTO Agreements. Allow us to 
extend our great appreciation to Dr. Cyrus Chu, Permanent Representative of Chinese Taipei and his 
team form Geneva for their impressive work in this House and for their valuable contribution to the 
multilateral trade system. We wish to the Chinese Taipei's delegation the utmost success during this 
trade policy review cycle.  
INDIA  
4.202.   During the period under review for 2014 -17, the GDP of Chinese Taipei continued to grow 
at a varying rate ranging from 0.8% to 4% with an average annual rate of 2.3%. Chinese Taipei is 
also amongst the most competitive economie s with a high living standard. It is also highly integrated 
in the global value chains which is reflected by the steady high ratio of its trade to GDP. However, 
the rate of GDP growth relatively has slowed down from the average of 4.3% during the period of  
last review due to competition from emerging economies, restrictions on inbound direct investments, 
need for increased expenditure on R&D and over reliance on exports as a driver of economic growth. 
The other challenges for the economy include shrinking o f the labour force, need to continue to shift 
the economy from industry to services with a focus on raising quality and value and other 
geo-political risks. We commend the efforts and measures taken by the authorities of Chinese Taipei 
to continue to keep the economy on a path of the growth and orient the trade driven economy to 
maintain competitiveness by introducing trade related structural reforms and other measures.  
4.203.   India has vibrant trade and investment relations with Chinese Taipei. India’s trade wit h 
Chinese Taipei has continued to grow albeit with periods of fluctuation and stood at US$6.08 billion 
in 2017 -18. There is considerable potential to promote India’s trade with Chinese Taipei in areas like 
electrical machinery, chemicals, electronics, comp uter hardware, agricultural products, marine 
products, textiles, automobiles and pharmaceuticals. A number of companies from Chinese Taipei 
are also investing in projects in India. There is considerable potential to further strengthen 
cooperation in areas including e -commerce, new and renewable energy, electric vehicles, electronics 
& IT, food processing and cold chain logistics.  
4.204.   We also wish to highlight a few issues which are impacting the potential of India’s trade with 
Chinese Taipei. These include:  
• The stringent sanitary and phytosanitary measures and entry standards in Chinese Taipei are 
impacting the trade of Indian agricultural products like sphagnum moss, sesame, black tea, 
processed food, fruits and vegetables.  
• The complex regulatory procedures a re also affecting export of Indian pharmaceuticals, 
chemicals and other products to Chinese Taipei.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 32 - 
 
  4.205.   We would urge the authorities in Chinese Taipei to look into all these issues for mutual 
benefit.  
4.206.   To conclude, we look forward to working closely with the authorities of Chinese Taipei for 
further expanding and harnessing the potential of our trade and investment ties for mutual benefit. 
We wish the delegation of Chinese Taipei a productive and successful TPR.  
TAJIKISTAN  
4.207.   The economic relations with Chinese T aipei along with other economies of the region are 
among the important directions of the foreign policy of Tajikistan.  
4.208.   During January -June 2018 Tajikistan's foreign trade turnover with Chinese Taipei amounted 
to US$17.4 million. Export constitutes US$16.6 million and import US$0.8 million.  
4.209.   The expansion of trade cooperation with Chinese Taipei is in the interest of Tajikistan and 
Chinese Taipei. It is important to make use of available opportunities for the development of trade 
ties between Tajikistan and C hinese Taipei.  
4.210.   Here, I would like to point out number of important areas of cooperation between Tajikistan 
and Chinese Taipei, including production of essential oils, rubbers, and means of inland transport, 
furniture, bedding, telecommunication, electric machines and equipment, establishment of joint 
ventures for development of mineral resources, and tourism and so on.  
4.211.   This fourth Trade Policy Review of Chinese Taipei provides an excellent opportunity to 
improve our understanding of its trade regime.  
4.212.   Allow me to highlight some key points of TP reports. Chinese Taipei relatively strong 
fundamentals and well -developed outward -looking economy have helped to maintain 
macro -financial stability and ensure the resilience of its export -led economy. During the revi ew 
period, annual GDP average growth rate for the period 2014 -17 stood at 2.3%. Despite some 
innovation - and labour -related concerns, Chinese Taipei has maintained its position among the 
world's most competitive economies, with among the highest living sta ndards, while registering a 
slight decline in income inequality. Chinese Taipei remains a highly developed outward -oriented 
trade -driven economy with a population of 23.6 million (as of March 2018). It is relatively well 
diversified, with the services sect or constituting the backbone of the economy. In terms of GDP 
share, services declined slightly over the review period, followed by manufacturing; both sectors are 
important for employment and export earnings. Manufacturing remains a pillar of Chinese Taipe i's 
economy, accounting for around 30% of GDP, close to 27% of employment and more than 90% of 
merchandise exports. The share of services in GDP and its share in total employment remained 
relatively stable during the period under review, and were 60% and 5 9.3%, respectively in 2017. 
During the review period, trade and trade -related structural reforms in the areas of trade facilitation, 
taxation, competition policy and intellectual property rights were undertaken. Chinese Taipei's trade 
policy continues to b e based on the trade openness, global and regional connectivity, economic 
growth, living standards and innovation. Chinese Taipei currently has RTAs in force with nine 
economies covering goods and services. It continues to offer non -reciprocal preferences to all LDCs. 
Chinese Taipei has maintained a strong record of notifications to the WTO, although an up -to-date 
notification on domestic support to agriculture is pending. New measures have been taken to foster 
greater public participation. Efforts to impro ve the business environment include enacted or planned 
legal reforms to: relax restrictions on the recruitment of overseas professionals; support SMEs; and 
create a friendlier environment for start -ups and entrepreneurs.  
4.213.   Chinese Taipei, as an active Membe r of the WTO, has taken commitment to improve trade 
facilitation processes. This commitment to improve trade facilitation was reflected in its ratification 
of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2015, the adoption of amendments clarifying relevant 
legislation (Customs Act), the enhancement of integration of online operations with the 
Customs -Port-Trade Single Window, facilitation in the exchange of certificates of origin, and the 
introduction of expeditious customs clearance services.  
4.214.   Since 2014, it par ticipated as a complainant in three new WTO dispute settlement cases and 
reserved its third -party rights in 22 cases.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 33 - 
 
  4.215.   My delegation acknowledges Chinese Taipei’s continued efforts to improve the business 
environment and facilitate trade. The continuing sh ift of the economy from industry to services and 
continued regulatory reforms would increase the flexibility of the Chinese Taipei economy and its 
ability to respond to growing external competition. We are confident that by its active participation 
within regional framework Chinese Taipei will remain committed to maintain the core values of the 
WTO and continue to support the development and expansion of multilateral trading system.  
4.216.   In conclusion, I wish Chinese Taipei a very productive and successful trade  policy review 
exercise.  
RÉPUBLIQUE  CENTRAFRICAINE  AU NOM  DU GROUPE  DES  PMA 
4.217.   Le Taipei chinois représente parmi les économies les plus ouvertes et compétitives, 
particulièrement intégré aux chaînes de valeur mondiales, et classé selon la Banque mondiale au 
15ème rang des économies où il est le plus facile de faire des affaires.  
4.218.   Malgré le ralentissement économique mondial qui a suivi la crise financière, le Taipei chinois 
a réussi à faire preuve de résilience avec un taux de croissance annuel moyen de 2,3% au  cours de 
la période d'examen entre 2014 et 2017.  
4.219.   L'exemple de la résistance de l'économie du Taipei chinois, dans un contexte économique 
mondial fragile, est pertinent, ceci dans la mesure où le territoire a entrepris rapidement des 
mesures d'ajustements pour dynamiser son économie et servir au mieux sa croissance à travers la 
mise en œuvre de plans de développement quadriennaux.  
4.220.   Ces plans font la part belle à l'assouplissement des réglementations, aux réformes 
structurelles, au développement des infrastru ctures et à l'élargissement de la portée de la politique 
commerciale et à la diversification des marchés étrangers — en particulier une ouverture 
commerciale en direction de l'Asie du sud et de l'Océanie.  
4.221.   Au-delà des mesures pertinentes prises par le Taipe i chinois en faveur de son développement 
économique, le Taipei chinois est également un fervent acteur et défenseur du système commercial 
multilatéral, tout comme le Groupe des PMA.  
4.222.   Le Taipei chinois est particulièrement conscient des bénéfices qu'il tire de la facilitation des 
échanges et d'un système commercial ouvert et à visée équitable.  
4.223.   C'est dans ce contexte, et pour soutenir un tel commerce mondial bénéfique à la croissance, 
que le Taipei chinois contribue à différents programmes d'Aide pour le comme rce et qu'il apporte 
une assistance aux pays en développement Membres, y compris les PMA, et aux organismes en lien 
avec l'OMC.  
4.224.   Le Groupe des PMA s'en félicite dans la mesure où il en est bénéficiaire, de même qu'il se 
félicite des initiatives prises pour offrir des préférences aux PMA en termes d'accès aux marchés en 
franchises de droits et sans contingents. Le Groupe des PMA espère que ces préférences pourront 
être accentuées à l'avenir.  
4.225.   Au nom du Groupe des PMA, la République centrafricaine souhaite au T aipei chinois un plein 
succès dans ses initiatives de réformes économiques et une réussite de son Examen des politiques 
commerciales.  
PERÚ  
4.226.   Mi delegación quisiera reconocer el alto grado de desarrollo económico alcanzado por el 
Taipéi Chino, en términos de ingreso per cápita, de reducción del desempleo y de la desigualdad, 
así como el alto estándar para hacer negocios, entre otros destacados logros que se evidencian en 
el informe de la Secretaría. Asimismo, tomamos nota de las importantes políticas económica s 
implementadas durante el período bajo examen para retomar un crecimiento económico más rápido 
y más sostenible, políticas que comprenden los aspectos monetario y fiscal, la innovación industrial, 
la promoción de la energía renovable, la protección de los  bosques y la racionalización del sector WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 34 - 
 
  pesquero. Confiamos en que estas políticas conducirán a aún mayores niveles de desarrollo 
económico.  
4.227.   El Perú y el Territorio Aduanero Distinto de Taiwán, Penghu, Kinmen y Matsu sostienen un 
intercambio comercial an ual importante que se mantiene desde hace años alrededor de los 
700 millones de dólares EE.UU., en los cuales está representada una gran diversidad de productos. 
Las exportaciones peruanas al Territorio Aduanero Distinto de Taiwán, Penghu, Kinmen y Matsu 
incluyen productos de exportación no tradicional, en los ámbitos, agrícola, metalúrgico, químico y 
textil. Invocamos en este sentido a que se incremente y siga diversificando nuestro intercambio, en 
beneficio de nuestras economías. De otro lado, los esfuerz os de cooperación económica entre el Perú 
y el Miembro bajo examen también comprenden la participación conjunta en el Foro APEC y en la 
negociación del Acuerdo TISA. El Perú mantiene un gran interés en el desarrollo de ambas iniciativas.  
4.228.   Mi delegación no ha presentado preguntas en ocasión de este Examen. Sin embargo, resalta 
lo señalado en los informes respecto al alto nivel de intervención pública en diversos sectores, así 
como las restricciones a la inversión en diversas áreas de la economía. En este sen tido, cabe 
mencionar que una mayor apertura y participación del sector privado han probado ser herramientas 
para acelerar el crecimiento en ciertas economías, como la peruana. También quisiéramos invocar 
a la baja de los aranceles de muy alto porcentaje, e n particular aquellos que conciernen a los 
productos pesqueros y agrícolas, en los que el Perú exporta productos de exportación no tradicional. 
Resulta también recomendable la simplificación de las diversas cargas asociadas a la importación de 
productos, p ara favorecer la transparencia y la previsibilidad del régimen comercial.   
4.229.   Es oportuno resaltar el destacado trabajo de la representación del Territorio Aduanero 
Distinto de Taiwán, Penghu, Kinmen y Matsu ante esta Organización, que es sin duda una de las  
delegaciones más participativas y constructivas en los debates, sometiendo a consideración de la 
Membresía numerosas comunicaciones formales con puntos de vista interesantes y pertinentes.  
4.230.   Antes de concluir, la delegación peruana reitera sus mejores dese os de desarrollo para el 
Miembro bajo Examen, y asimismo le deseamos un exitoso Examen de sus políticas comerciales.  
PARAGUAY  
4.231.   La economía del Taipéi Chino ha mantenido su posición entre las economías más 
competitivas y abiertas del mundo con un comercio pujante y una plataforma productiva realmente 
dirigida a la exportación. Taipéi Chino ha mantenido como principales motores de d esarrollo 
económico una apertura en las prácticas comerciales, apostando por la conectividad mundial y 
regional, insertándose de manera efectiva en las cadenas globales de valor con un comercio dirigido 
hacia el exterior. De esta manera, su economía ha log rado un crecimiento anual del PIB que se situó 
entre el 0,8% (2015) y el 4% (2014), con un promedio anual del 2,3% entre 2014 y 2017, con un 
dinámico sector de servicios que ha jugado un papel clave en este desempeño, representando el 
65% del PIB y 60% del  empleo.  
4.232.   La actual coyuntura del sistema multilateral del comercio ha provocado de manera evidente 
una desaceleración en el intercambio con sus principales socios comerciales, lo que ha arrojado 
resultados económicos alentadores, pero a su vez, cíclicos.  
4.233.   Sin embargo, me gustaría felicitar a las autoridades del Taipéi Chino por las reformas 
estructurales en materia comercial que han implementado en estos años para combatir esta 
desaceleración, en particular, las relacionadas a las esferas de la facilitación  del comercio, a través 
de la ratificación del Acuerdo sobre Facilitación del Comercio de la OMC (AFC) en 2015, la adopción 
de una Ley de Aduanas que reglamenta la implementación y asimismo, la adopción de medidas que 
han permitido una mejora de la integra ción de las operaciones en línea con la ventanilla única para 
aduanas, puertos y comercio, la facilitación del intercambio de certificados de origen y la introducción 
de servicios de despacho de aduana agilizados. Creemos que todas estas medidas tendientes  a la 
facilitación del comercio serán sumamente beneficiosas para todos.  
4.234.   Permítame destacar la excelente relación bilateral que hemos mantenido con el Taipéi Chino, 
en las cuales hemos apostado por una fuerte cooperación en materia económica, política, cul tural y 
comercial. No puedo dejar de mencionar que Paraguay y el Taipéi Chino han suscrito importantes 
acuerdos de índole económica, como lo son el Acuerdo de Transporte Aéreo, Convenio sobre Mutua WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 35 - 
 
  Garantía de Inversiones, el Convenio para Evitar la Doble Imposición y Prevenir la Evasión Fiscal con 
respecto a Impuestos a la Renta, y el Acuerdo de Cooperación Económica.  
4.235.   En el periodo en estudio, los flujos de comercio en ambas direcciones se han incrementado, 
no obstante, los niveles de comercio se encuentr an muy por debajo de su potencialidad. Los 
principales productos paraguayos exportados al Taipéi Chino son cereales y oleaginosas, carne, 
alimentos varios, y carbón vegetal.  
4.236.   Por otro lado, celebro de la misma manera que Paraguay mantiene estrechos lazos e n el 
ámbito de intercambio cultural y tecnológico. En este sentido, destaco la creación en 2018 de la 
Universidad Politécnica Taipéi Chino -Paraguay, institución aprobada por Ley N°6.096 del 31 de mayo 
de 2018. Dicha Universidad Politécnica tendrá el objeti vo de constituirse en una Institución de 
Educación Superior reconocida nacional e internacionalmente por su calidad e innovación académica, 
mediante la aplicación del conocimiento teórico -práctico, programas académicos acreditados, 
tecnologías educativas d e vanguardia que cumplan las expectativas de la sociedad y de la juventud 
paraguaya emprendedora que desea insertarse en el mercado laboral de manera efectiva. Las 
carreras contarán con planes educativos utilizados en las universidades del Taipéi Chino de alto 
prestigio, y el plantel de docentes estará conformado por profesores del Taipéi Chino, principalmente 
en disciplinas relacionadas con la ingeniería.  
4.237.   De las preguntas que los Miembros han presentado en el marco del Examen, es del interés 
del Paraguay conocer las relacionadas a preocupaciones comerciales específicas y los datos 
justificantes utilizados para la prohibición de ingredientes modificados genéticamente (OGMs) en el 
ámbito de las OTC. Así también los procedimientos para establecer los límites máximos de residuos 
de plaguicidas, contaminantes y medicamentos veterinarios (LMR) que no se ajusten a las normas 
de referencia internacional (Codex Alimentarius, OIE, y CIPF), además de las cuestiones relativas al 
sistema de trazabilidad para materias pr imas alimentarias modificadas genéticamente (OGMs), en 
el ámbito de las MSF.  
4.238.   En el ámbito de la OMC valoramos el apoyo que el Taipéi Chino brinda al sistema multilateral 
del comercio y destacamos el trabajo conjunto que llevamos adelante en comercio elect rónico, 
facilitación de inversiones y apoyo a las MIPYMES. Al respecto, Paraguay desearía reafirmar lo 
declarado por ambos durante la Conferencia Ministerial de Buenos Aires en diciembre de 2017, sobre 
todo la vocación multilateralista de ambos Miembros, y  el compromiso con el sistema multilateral 
basado en reglas y el comercio abierto, prioridades a las que el Paraguay adhiere su apoyo en insta 
nuevamente a toda la Membresía a impulsar de manera a fortalecer los objetivos de la Organización 
y encarar los d esafíos del siglo XXI.  
4.239.   En nombre de mi país, reitero mis felicitaciones a quienes tienen a su cargo la conducción 
de este Examen y a las autoridades del Taipéi Chino por su siempre activa participación y 
contribución a los trabajos de esta Organización.  
TURKEY  
4.240.   As a trade -driven economy, Chinese Taipei continues to be a very open economy and 
remains among the most competitive economies in the world.  
4.241.   In addition, according to the World Bank’s Doing Business Report, it was ranked in the 15th 
place in 2018. It is also recognized as having one of the most efficient IPR enforcement system in 
the region.  
4.242.   In addition, Chinese Taipei successfully attracts inbound investments especially in services 
sectors and electronic manufacturing through liberalization polici es and trade agreements. Outbound 
direct investment flows from Chinese Taipei is also steadily growing, where Turkey also started to 
be a destination for investors.  
4.243.   The trade facilitation developments including the ratification of the TFA and the 
improveme nts of the Customs -Port-Trade Single Window are also significant steps taken in 
expediting customs clearance services.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 36 - 
 
  4.244.   The macroeconomic policies which help Chinese Taipei take its place in various global value 
chains is no doubt effective.  
4.245.   Since the last  review, Chinese Taipei had a modest annual growth rate of 2.3%, which seems 
to be limited mainly by the slowdown in world trade.  
4.246.   Due to weak internal demand and falling global oil prices, average current account surplus 
increased in the review period. We see that unemployment rate also dropped to 3.8% in this period, 
which is a sign to existing industrial capacity.  
4.247.   Being also vulnerable to developments in the global economy and responding the strong 
competition from emerging economies seem as the main cha llenges ahead of Chinese Taipei.  
4.248.   To overcome these challenges, we believe that the ongoing reforms to increase the flexibility 
and effectiveness of institutions, the 17th midterm development plan for the period 2017 -2020 and 
the 5+2 Industrial Innovation Plan are important blueprints.  
4.249.   On the other hand, importing nearly 98% of its energy supply, Chinese Taipei is highly 
sensitive to global energy prices. The success of the reform programme which aims to increase the 
share of domestically produced renewabl e energy to 20% in the overall energy mix by 2025 will be 
important in this aspect.  
4.250.   Chinese Taipei is a valuable trading partner of Turkey in the East Asia and we think there 
are still ample opportunities to exploit in trade, investments and tourism. In 2 017, our bilateral trade 
volume realized US$2.2 billion.  
4.251.   However, in our bilateral trade, Turkey is experiencing a big deficit, which is not sustainable 
in the long run. We believe this unbalanced trade pattern has to move towards a balance and we 
should work together to improve and balance our bilateral relations, with regard to trade in goods, 
services and investments. We note that easing the procedures and further liberalization for 
agricultural goods to Chinese Taipei will help in this regard.  
4.252.   Chinese Taipei is always providing utmost support to uphold multilateral system and actively 
involved in the discussions at the WTO with a constructive approach.  
4.253.   At this point, let us also applaud our colleagues working in the Geneva Mission for their hard 
work a nd valuable contribution to the activities under this roof.  
4.254.   Finally, we would like to mention our appreciation to be given the opportunity to make our 
points known on the trade policy of Chinese Taipei and we wish them a very successful review.  
  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 37 - 
 
  5  REPLIES B Y THE REPRESENTATIVE  OF THE SEPARATE CUS TOMS TERRITORY OF 
TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINM EN AND MATSU AND ADD ITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  First of all, on behalf of my government, I would like to express our sincere gratitude to the 
Chair, the discussant, the Secretariat and Mem bers for your valuable comments and contributions 
to our Trade Policy Review.  
5.2.  We come to this Trade Policy Review with a goal to further enhance the transparency of our 
trade policy and to seek feedback from all Members. We very much appreciate the insight ful and 
constructive comments from Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen and nearly 30 delegations that either 
took the floor or shared their written statements with us.  
5.3.  Some Members recognize our efforts to extend the public consultation period for new legislation  
to 60 days, and a user -friendly website has been established to facilitate open discussion. Members 
also made positive comments on our Customs -Port-Trade Single Window. Several Members 
expressed their interests in our innovative development and deregulati on of financial services, 
including the financial sandbox mechanism, and the streamline on opening banking accounts. We 
are pleased to receive the recognition from Members on our economic and trade developments that 
took place during the review period.  
5.4.  We are also pleased that our Aid for Trade programmes are well -received from our partners, 
we will continue our efforts to respond to the needs of developing and LDCs for sustainable 
development, and assist their further integration into the global trading sy stem. We would also like 
to state that my government would not claim the special and differential treatment in the future 
rounds of WTO negotiations.  
5.5.  Now, I would also like to take this opportunity to respond to a few concerns raised on 
Wednesday.  
Food safety and SPS  
5.6.  First, with regard to our SPS measures, I understand some Members are concerned about our 
food safety standards and relevant import regulations. During the review period, a series of food 
safety incidents happened in the Separate Customs Ter ritory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu. 
Food safety has therefore become a highly sensitive issue for us. As a result, consumers, consumer 
protection groups and legislators are highly concerned about the safety of food and related products. 
To ensure the food safety and rebuild consumer confidence, we will continue to conduct risk 
assessment, risk communication and necessary risk management in order to protect public health 
and ensure our measures are in line with WTO rules.  
5.7.  Second, we are currently bu ilding an online inquiry system for MRL applications to improve 
transparency and efficiency. The system is expected to launch by the end of this year. Very soon, 
applicants will be able to track the progress of the application online. I would also like to let you 
know that this week we issued a revised standard for pesticides residues in food, which added and 
modified forty -three residue levels to various agricultural products for 10 kinds of pesticides.  
5.8.  Third, we notice that some Members expressed their co ncerns on the issue of disease -free 
zoning. As a Member of the WTO and OIE, we recognize the zoning principle and follow the 
international standards and conduct risk assessments based on scientific evidences to evaluate all 
applications.  
IPR 
5.9.  Fourth, as some Members stated on Wednesday, my government has been actively 
modernizing IPR legal framework in recent years in order to provide right holders with more 
comprehensive protection of their interests. In addition, we have been eagerly engaging  in 
international cooperation on IPR matters with many Members. Those achievements are widely 
accepted and accredited. However, as the Internet is constantly evolving, online infringement is an 
issue we must continue to make efforts on enforcement and onli ne piracy combatting.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 38 - 
 
  Agriculture  
5.10.   Fifth, regarding notification of our domestic support, we attach great importance to 
transparency, and will submit our notification on the domestic support of agriculture as soon as 
possible.  
5.11.   Sixth, some Members inquired a bout our progress on combatting IUU fishing activities. We 
fully support sustainable management of marine resources. Thus, we have actively participated in 
the WTO negotiation on fishery subsidy. We also firmly support the elimination of subsidies that 
contribute to IUU fishing. Furthermore, in the early 2017, we promulgated the Act for Distant Water 
Fisheries, the Act of Govern Investment in the Operation of Foreign Flag Vessels, and amended the 
Fisheries Act and several related regulations in order to str engthen the management of fishing 
vessels and fishery sector. With these efforts, we are confident that the IUU fishing activities will be 
effectively eradicated.  
Transportation  
5.12.   Lastly, one Member raised concerns regarding the exclusion from bidding for ou r railway 
project and opening of shipping route. Actually, several transport -related contracts have been 
awarded to the Member’s suppliers from 2017 to 2018. And we are willing to discuss the issue of 
opening of shipping route with that Member.  
Conclusion  
5.13.   This concludes our brief response to some of the important issues you raised on Wednesday. 
We will respond to other questions submitted after the deadline within 30 days. Every question, 
comment and feedback we received contributes to our efforts to furthe r promote trade liberalization 
and improve the domestic business environment.  
5.14.   Finally, on behalf of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, I 
would like to express our sincerest appreciation to the Chair, our discussant Ambassad or Marc 
Vanheukelen, the Secretariat and all Members. Thank you very much.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.15.   First, I would like to thank Vice -Minister Ms. Wang and the Permanent Representative Dr. Chu 
and both of their teams for all the hard work you have put into this TPR in p roviding answers to the 
over 400 questions by 22 Members. I understand that in meantime you have received some 
additional and follow -up questions, for which you will provide answers within the timelines foreseen 
for this exercise.  
5.16.   I would like to organize  my comments today as the discussant with a look back to the main 
messages we heard on the first day – both positive as well as some critical – that Chinese Taipei 
could take back home for further reflection and consideration. These comments probably will not do 
full justice to the very comprehensive discussion we had and should be therefore regarded more as 
an "executive summary" of the main recurrent points raised.  
5.17.   Perhaps the first thing to flag is the clear common denominator that all Members in this r oom 
shared and specifically mentioned in their statements. It is the constructive role and participation of 
Chinese Taipei in the work of this Organization – both everyday work and negotiations and the new 
initiatives - and its continued commitment to open  and rules -based multilateral trading system.  
5.18.   I also heard praises for Chinese Taipei's strong fundamentals of an outward -looking economy, 
the resilience of its export -led economy, and its macro -financial stability. It was universally observed 
that Chines e Taipei is among the world's most competitive and prosperous economies and remains 
open to international trade and is well integrated into the world economy and global value chains. 
In this regard it is of great systemic interest to hear the announcement the Vice -Minister of Economic 
Affairs just made that Chinese Taipei will not ask for special and differential treatment in future WTO 
negotiations.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 39 - 
 
  5.19.   Members also took a strong interest in the new initiatives that have been adopted during the 
period under r eview to boost the economy and improve competitiveness of Chinese Taipei: the 
Development Plan (2017 -2020), the "5+2" Industrial Innovation Plan, the Forward -Looking 
Infrastructure Development Programme and the ongoing labour market reforms will create mor e 
flexible framework conditions, that will be conducive to meeting emerging challenges.  
5.20.   Chinese Taipei's regional connectivity and integration was mentioned too on several 
occasions, specifically the new Southbound Policy.  
5.21.   We heard appreciation for the n on-reciprocal preferences to all LDCs and contributions to Aid -
for-Trade and other assistance initiatives. Members welcomed that during the review period, trade 
and trade -related structural reforms in, for instance, the areas of trade facilitation, taxatio n, 
competition policy and intellectual property rights were undertaken.  
5.22.   However, Trade Policy Review is not only an exercise of praise. Vice -Minister, you said yourself 
in your opening statement on Wednesday that you "believe that questions and critiques are the best 
driving force for progress". Most Members mentioned some areas where there is still scope for 
improvements in terms of balance or diversification or further liberalization of their trade relations 
with Chinese Taipei. I would now like to highl ight a few of these areas.  
5.23.   The area that stood out most is the SPS regime. We heard concerns about the consideration 
of international standards when establishing restrictions on imports from countries with animal 
disease; regulatory measures to improve fo od safety of locally produced food items; delays on issue 
of sanitary certificate for unprocessed imported foodstuffs; restrictions on certain imports of beef, 
pork and poultry products and slow processing times for Maximum Residue Levels (MRLs) of 
pestici des on imports and in some circumstances a zero tolerance level for pesticides on imports. 
Here as well some new and promising announcements were made this morning by Chinese Taipei.  
5.24.   While Members welcomed the ratification of the WTO Trade Facilitation Ag reement in 2015 
and several other trade facilitation efforts, we also heard a few expressions of concern about 
burdensome import procedures and high cost or delays caused by international or domestic 
transportation.  
5.25.   Several Members also noted that product ion of various agricultural products remains 
protected by high tariffs (up to 1,059.6%), special safeguard measures and various support 
mechanisms and encouraged Chinese Taipei to consider reducing protection and existing subsidies 
and support. All Members  also strongly encouraged submitting the most recent notifications on 
agricultural domestic support that is still pending.  
5.26.   Ongoing efforts by Chinese Taipei to liberalize its regulatory settings affecting investment 
environment and the establishment of an  online public policy platform were welcomed by many and 
it is hoped that the post -investment registration mechanism will be soon implemented. As the 
services industry continues to be the driving force of GDP and employment, Chinese Taipei was also 
encoura ged to consider further liberalizing its services trade regime to attract foreign direct 
investment.  
5.27.   While it was overall positively noted that Chinese Taipei has made an appropriate 
implementation of TRIPS and strengthened its IPR protection, more efforts  were recommended to 
combat the problems of counterfeiting and piracy. Chinese Taipei was also called on to review its 
public procurement methods and procedures to ensure transparency and fairness to all WTO parties 
on a few occasions.  
5.28.   Chair, this TPR has  allowed Members to learn about the recent developments in Chinese Taipei 
as well as given them opportunity improve the understanding of Chinese Taipei's trade policy and 
express a few suggestions on the practices where they still see possible room for fur ther 
improvements. This is the very purpose of the Trade Policy Review exercise, and the TPR of this 
week has demonstrated again its usefulness.  
5.29.   I trust that Chinese Taipei takes advantage of this exercise and will take some of these 
remarks back home as "a plan of action" to build upon the success already achieved and guide it in 
its next steps to further liberalize its trade and investment policy.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 40 - 
 
  5.30.   I would be amiss if I did not conclude with another Chinese proverb: "A goal without deadline 
is only a wish . A dream with a deadline becomes a goal". That next deadline is now the 5th Trade 
Policy Review of Chinese Taipei in 5 years time.  
5.31.   Let me close by thanking Chinese Taipei once again to have given me the honour to be the 
discussant for this Review. Thank y ou. 
ESWATINI  
5.32.   The Kingdom of Eswatini has had an enduring strong and mutually beneficial relationship with 
Chinese Taipei that has spanned all of 5 decades. The two of us have cooperated closely in the areas 
of education, health, agriculture, economic devel opment, amongst others, and in light of this 
partnership, we are very pleased to be part of her 4th Trade Policy Review. My delegation further 
notes with appreciation that in the period under review, Chinese Taipei’s economy has continued to 
progress towar d trade and investment liberalization and further integration into the global economy 
and economic diversification.  
5.33.   We further note that it has maintained its position among the world's most competitive 
economies, and hence the highest living standards it  enjoys. We commend Chinese Taipei for the 
trade and trade -related structural reforms in the areas of trade facilitation, taxation, competition 
policy and intellectual property rights that were undertaken.  
5.34.   My delegation also acknowledges the critical role  played by Trade Facilitation in any regional 
integration initiative, as well as the positive impact that reforms in these areas have on improving 
an economy's ease of doing business. As such, my delegation commends Chinese Taipei for its 
ratification of t he Trade Facilitation Agreement, in 2015; the enhancement of integration of online 
operations with the Customs -Port-Trade Single Window; facilitation in the exchange of certificates 
of origin; and also the introduction of expeditious customs clearance serv ices, amongst others.  
5.35.   While commending the progress made by Chinese Taipei, from the last Trade Policy Review 
in 2014, we further encourage them to double their efforts in fast -tracking improvements in the 
relevant areas of concern such as the domestic en vironment for ease of doing business, as we have 
witnessed a slight drop from 11th position to 15th position. As others have stated before us, 
Chinese  Taipei is also encouraged to expedite its efforts in strengthening regulatory transparency, 
removing perc eived discriminatory trade barriers and facilitating regulatory harmonization in 
accordance with international standards.  
5.36.   In conclusion, my delegation reiterates its support for the ambitious trade and development 
agenda of Chinese Taipei and wishes ongoi ng success as it continues to implement elements of its 
trade and economic reform agenda. We wish a successful Trade Policy Review and wish the entire 
delegation a safe trip back to Taipei.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.37.   The EU would like to thank the delegation of Chines e Taipei for the comprehensive replies to 
our apparently quite numerous questions after all. We thank Chinese Taipei again for using the 
alternative timeline which has allowed us to review the replies in advance of the meeting and we do 
not have any follow -up questions.  
5.38.   In our statement on the first day, we asked Chinese Taipei to help us in looking forward to 
fruitful discussion on the future of this Organization and, in this regard, we do welcome the 
announcement Chinese Taipei about not claiming special  and differential treatment in future WTO 
negotiations. This constitutes an important announcement and it demonstrates much needed 
leadership in this Organization.  
5.39.   The EU firmly believes in the need for flexible approaches in this Organization which take into 
account the actual developmental needs of each individual Member while allowing us to make 
progress in the negotiating pillar of our Organization. As such, this is an important step in the broader 
context of our conversation on WTO modernization and w e are looking forward and confident that 
together we can bring this dialogue further.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 41 - 
 
  5.40.   We took also good note of Chinese Taipei's remarks on various issues that we have raised in 
our statement on the first day, such as the notification on the agricultural domestic support – the 
EU attaches great importance to transparency – and some SPS related matters.  
5.41.   Coming back to the announcement on special and differential treatment, in this regard we 
also take note of the steps undertaken by Chinese Taipei on fishery  subsidies and on fishery 
management. It is a very important announcement as well and we look forward to cooperate with 
Chinese Taipei in reaching an agreement here in Geneva as we committed to do in Buenos Aires by 
2019.  
5.42.   In conclusion, we hope that Chines e Taipei will make full use of the remarks and 
recommendations of the WTO Members as well as the discussant to continue with the reforms and 
further improving its trade and investment policy in order to achieve its goals of sustained economic 
growth and in creased productivity. We would like to thank again the Secretariat, the Chinese Taipei 
delegation, in particular the Mission here in Geneva and you, Minister, for the efforts and the work 
that you have put in all of this exercise. And we look forward to ta king further stock of the progress 
achieved by Chinese Taipei at the next TPR in 5 years' time.  
JAPAN  
5.43.   Japan commends the statement delivered by the Vice Minister, Ms. Mei -Hua Wang this 
morning that Chinese Taipei will not ask S&D treatment in any future ne gotiations.  
5.44.   Japan believes that this is a real epoch -making statement which will contribute greatly to the 
ongoing discussion on the S&D at the WTO.  
5.45.   Japan expects that other emerging Members will follow Chinese Taipei.  
5.46.   Also, Japan truly appreciates the co ntinuous efforts of Chinese Taipei for the liberalization of 
its market.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.47.   We would like to sincerely thank you, Chair, the team's head of delegation, Ms. Wang, and 
Ambassador Vanheukelen for your clear and insightful remarks this morning. And we would like to 
express our appreciation to the entire delegation of Chinese Taipei for the constructive and diligent 
efforts in this fourth Trade Policy Review with a special recognition for Dr. Chu and our Geneva -
based colleagues.  
5.48.   We appreciate the summ ary given of the discussion from Day 1 of this TPR and the detailed 
and informative responses received to our 48 previously submitted questions. Our authorities in 
Washington are still studying them closely and could not resist submitting an additional six  follow -up 
questions this morning.  
5.49.   Without going into an exhaustive description of those follow -up questions this morning, we 
will mention now that the questions address export financing programmes which cover agricultural 
products, SPS measures including any plans to improve the process for establishing minimum 
residue levels of pesticides to avoid unnecessary delays, and questions about possible reforms to 
competition law.  
5.50.   Thank you to the delegation for addressing some of the issues of importance raised by the 
United States, including liberalization of the trade and investment regime and much appreciated 
efforts to further improve transparency through requirements for notice in common periods with 
respect to draft and revised regulations.  
5.51.   In addition, the  US takes good note and welcomes the statement by Ms. Wang this morning 
that Chinese Taipei will not claim special and differential treatment in future negotiations. We look 
forward to following up with our colleagues form Chinese Taipei to learn more and explore the 
implications of this.  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 42 - 
 
  5.52.   As mentioned on Day 1 of this TPR, the United States would like to highlight its concern about 
unwarranted restrictions on beef and pork market access. We would also encourage alignment of 
SPS measures with science -based i nternational standards and practices and a commitment to 
address more timely issuance of approvals.  
5.53.   We have also noted well other themes with widespread interest in this TPR discussion, such 
as anticipated notifications with regard to domestic support for agriculture, government procurement 
and the role of large conglomerate. Washington follows these and other issues with great interest.  
5.54.   The United States very much appreciates its robust relationship with Chinese Taipei in trade 
and beyond, including our 15 3 sister cities and many cultural and education exchange opportunities. 
We greatly value our strong commercial and investment ties, and appreciate the delegation's 
proactive engagement here in many efforts such as fishery subsidies, services negotiations a nd 
efforts through trade liberalization and capacity building.  
5.55.   We would like to congratulate the delegation and the TPR division's team on a successful TPR 
and to wish everyone travelling back to Taipei a safe and pleasant journey. We look forward to 
continued cooperative work with our friends here.  
MS. MEI HUA  WANG  (HEAD  OF DELEGATION)  
5.56.   As we come towards the end of this meeting, I would like to thank all of you who have 
provided us with valuable comments. We will endeavour to provide answers to the questio ns 
submitted after the deadline or made orally at this meeting. We will also welcome follow -up 
commentation with all fellow WTO Members in the multilateral and bilateral forum. Thank you again 
for the hospitality and friendship offered to my delegation. I wish you all the best.  
  WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 43 - 
 
  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS B Y THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  The fourth Trade Policy Review of the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen 
and Matsu (Chinese Taipei) has offered us a good opportunity to deepen our understanding of recent 
developments in, and challenges to, its trade, economic, and investment policies. Since its last 
review in 2014, Chinese Taipei's initiatives to further integrate into the multilateral trading system 
have been greatly appreciated. Indeed, the more than 400 ad vance written questions submitted by 
22 Members and the 29 delegations that took the floor during the two days of the meeting underline 
the importance attached by Members to Chinese Taipei's trade and investment policies and practices.  
6.2.  I would like to tha nk the Chinese Taipei delegation, led by the Vice Minister, Ministry of 
Economic Affairs, Ms. Mei -Hua Wang, for its active participation in this exercise. Also, I would like 
to thank our discussant Ambassador Marc Vanheukelen of the European Union for his insightful 
remarks, and all the delegations that took the floor for their valuable contributions to this Review.  
6.3.  Members commended Chinese Taipei for its macroeconomic management and for the reforms 
undertaken so far that ensured strong, albeit fluctuatin g, growth coupled with low inflation and 
dropping unemployment, as well as the resilience of its outward -oriented competitive economy and 
high living standards. Members acknowledged Chinese Taipei's integration into the world economy 
and global value chain s as well as the beneficial effects of structural reforms in various areas. Some 
Members encouraged further reforms to cope with increased competition from emerging economies.  
6.4.  Chinese Taipei was commended for its transparent and predictable trade policies  as well as its 
initiatives to create a friendlier business and investment environment including: investment regime 
liberalization; support to SMEs and entrepreneurs; increased transparency in the process of 
developing regulations; and reduction of restric tions on the recruitment of overseas professionals. 
Chinese Taipei was encouraged to: improve the transparency and predictability of its investment 
review process and/or to move forward with a simpler post -investment registration system; continue 
removing investment barriers; and apply a non -discriminatory regime towards foreign investors and 
traders.  
6.5.  Chinese Taipei has remained committed to an open and rules -based multilateral trading system 
while expanding regional and extra -regional integration through recent RTAs signed with Singapore, 
New Zealand and Paraguay, and a New Southbound Policy, for which more information was sought. 
Members highly appreciated Chinese Taipei's active and constructive participation in the WTO's work 
including in the areas of e -commerce, services domestic regulation, investment facilitation, MSMEs 
and Environmental Goods Agreement negotiations. They also commended its expanding WTO 
commitments including through the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), the 
implementation of ITA 2 by 2021 and the acceptance of the revised GPA, as well as for supporting 
LDCs. Members acknowledged Chinese Taipei's strong record of WTO notification while urging the 
submission of an up -to-date notification on domestic support in agri culture.  
6.6.  Members appreciated Chinese Taipei's trade facilitation initiatives, for example in the areas of 
legislative amendments, single window, Authorized Economic Operators and certificates of origin, 
and encouraged continuous improvements. Members note d its comprehensive tariff binding 
coverage and the slight decrease of the simple average MFN applied tariff rate but also the persisting 
complexity of the tariff structure. Several concerns were expressed about certain TBT and SPS 
requirements, and certai n Members urged the removal or review of a number of measures on food, 
medicines and chemicals, including those relating to Maximum Residue Levels and genetically 
modified food, as well as to ensure their scientific basis and alignment to international sta ndards. 
Chinese Taipei was encouraged to undertake improvements in public procurement, including the 
expansion of the coverage of its GPA commitments. The persistence of public sector involvement in 
the economy was noted and further privatization was encou raged. Members appreciated the 
strengthening and enforcement enhancement of intellectual property rights; nevertheless, due to 
persisting concerns, they encouraged Chinese Taipei to continue these efforts in certain IPR areas.  
6.7.  As at the time of its previo us Review, Chinese Taipei was urged to further liberalize its 
agriculture sector, with concerns being expressed about high tariffs, tariff rate quotas and subsidies. 
Chinese Taipei was applauded for, and encouraged to continue with efforts to tackle illega l, 
unreported and unregulated (IUU) fisheries. Members were interested in hearing more about Chinese 
Taipei's energy reform programme and any incentives being offered under the Five Plus -Two WT/TPR/W/154  • Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu  
 
- 44 - 
 
  Industries Innovation Plan. Members noted reforms undertaken in t he banking, securities and the 
Fintech segments, and considered that there was further scope for financial services liberalization 
and indeed services liberalization more generally. Chinese Taipei was also asked to remove certain 
shipping restrictions.  
6.8.  The delegation from Chinese Taipei provided answers to several of these issues. It also stated 
that Chinese Taipei will not claim the special and differential treatment granted to developing country 
Members in future negotiations in the WTO.  
6.9.  The above are som e of the key issues that had emerged in our discussion. I hope that the 
Chinese Taipei delegation will take into account and further reflect on the many constructive 
comments, both broad and detailed, that it has received during this Review. Finally, I wou ld like to 
thank all those that participated in our discussion, and I look forward to receiving the answers from 
Chinese Taipei to any outstanding questions within the next month, at which point the Review will 
be successfully concluded.  
__________