About TW

Location

Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is an island located in East Asia. It is situated approximately 180 kilometers (112 miles) off the southeastern coast of mainland China, across the Taiwan Strait.

Capital

The capital city of Taiwan is Taipei.

Population

As of the latest estimates, Taiwan has a population of approximately 23.6 million people.

Area

Taiwan covers an area of about 36,193 square kilometers (13,974 square miles).

Official Language

The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese. However, Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka, and indigenous languages are also spoken by various ethnic groups.

Government

Taiwan is a democratic republic with a multi-party system. The government operates under a semi-presidential system with a President as the head of state and a Premier as the head of government. The Legislative Yuan is the unicameral legislature of Taiwan.

Status

Taiwan is a self-governing democratic island, but its sovereignty is a subject of dispute. The People's Republic of China (PRC) claims Taiwan as its territory, but Taiwan operates with its government, military, and constitution.

Economy

Taiwan has a highly developed and export-oriented economy, primarily driven by manufacturing, technology, and trade. It is known for its electronics industry, including semiconductors and computer hardware. Taiwan is one of the Four Asian Tigers, along with South Korea, Hong Kong, and Singapore, known for its rapid industrialization and economic growth.

Currency

The currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD).

Natural Features

Taiwan is characterized by mountainous terrain, with more than half of the island covered by forested mountains. It also has a diverse range of ecosystems, including tropical rainforests, subtropical forests, and coastal mangrove forests. Taiwan is prone to earthquakes and typhoons due to its location along the Pacific Ring of Fire.

Culture

Taiwanese culture is a blend of indigenous traditions, Chinese influences, and modern developments. It encompasses various art forms, cuisine, festivals, and religious practices. Taiwanese cuisine, including dishes such as beef noodle soup, dumplings, and bubble tea, is renowned internationally.

Infrastructure

Taiwan has a well-developed infrastructure, including modern transportation networks, telecommunications, healthcare facilities, and educational institutions. High-speed rail and extensive public transportation systems connect major cities and regions across the island.

International Relations

Taiwan maintains unofficial diplomatic relations with countries around the world, as it is not recognized as a sovereign state by the United Nations and many countries due to pressure from China. However, Taiwan participates in international organizations and maintains extensive trade and cultural ties globally.

Tourism

Taiwan is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic landscapes, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. Tourist highlights include the Taipei 101 skyscraper, Taroko Gorge National Park, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan Mountain, and the historic streets of Jiufen and Tainan.