This publication is the English edition of Taiwan’s national profile published by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Presented in the format of Taiwan at a Glance, it systematically introduces Taiwan’s general profile, natural geography, population composition, historical development, political system, foreign affairs, cross-strait relations, economic development, science and technology industries, education, culture, press freedom, and tourism information. The publication states that Taiwan and its outlying islands cover approximately 36,197 square kilometers, with a population of about 23.4 million. Taiwan is a multiparty democracy, with Taipei City as its capital and the New Taiwan dollar as its national currency.
The publication also explains that Taiwan is situated in the West Pacific, and that its jurisdiction extends to the main island of Taiwan as well as the outlying islands of Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu. In addition, it introduces Taiwan’s diverse ethnic groups and cultural characteristics, democratic development, international participation, foreign relations, and economic and technological strengths. The publication further notes that Taiwan is an important player in the global information and communications technology and semiconductor industries, was the world’s 16th largest merchandise exporter in 2023, and continues to promote policy directions such as the New Southbound Policy, industrial innovation, digital transformation, and net-zero transition.