British Columbia Opens Taiwan Trade Office

British Columbia (B.C.) has taken a significant step to enhance its economic relations with Taiwan by opening a trade office in Taipei this past April. Taiwan stands as one of British Columbia’s largest trading partners, underscoring the importance of this new venture.

“Having a trade office in Taiwan will open doors to new opportunities for B.C. businesses,” said Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation. “By expanding our trade relationships, and promoting B.C.’s innovative, sustainable products and services internationally, we are continuing our work to support businesses and the people who depend on them.”

– Brenda Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation

The Trade and Invest British Columbia (TIBC) office in Taiwan will serve as a vital support hub for businesses in the province. It aims to provide better access to the Taiwanese market and promote B.C. exports. B.C. Trade and Investment Representatives (TIRs) in Taiwan work to grow B.C. exports to Taiwan and attract Taiwanese investment into B.C. across various sectors including ICT, life sciences, critical minerals, cleantech, and agriculture, food and beverage.

Opportunities to connect Taiwanese and B.C. companies with the support of B.C.’s Trade and Investment Representatives include:

• Computex Taipei: the leading global ICT and IoT expo held annually at the end of May or early June, covering the whole spectrum of ICT industry, from established brands to startups and from ICT supply chain to IoT ecosystems.
• Food Taipei: Taiwan’s largest food show will be held June 26-29, 2024. It attracts over 60,000 visitors annually and is an excellent opportunity for B.C. exporters to connect with new and established contacts in Taiwan and Asia. This year, eight B.C. agrifood companies will be at the B.C. pavilion.
• Bio Asia Taiwan Conference and Exhibition: an annual life science conference in Taiwan that will be attended by Trade and Invest BC and B.C. businesses will be held July 24-28, 2024.
• Canada Food Expo: allows B.C. exporters to meet potential buyers and test their products in multiple markets i.e. in Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan in September 2024.

B.C. serves as a gateway to Canada, while Taiwan is a gateway to the Asia-Pacific region, making it an ideal match for companies from both regions to collaborate. Taiwan’s geographic location positions it as a strategic regional hub for new entrants to the broader Asian market, offering streamlined access and distribution to both East and Southeast Asia. As a crucial player in the global technology supply chain, Taiwan is recognized for its elevated level of innovation and leads the world in patent filings. Additionally, Taiwan boasts robust infrastructure, a highly educated workforce and a strong commitment to international trade.

The new office signifies continued and deepening engagement between B.C. and Taiwan, aiming to leverage shared economic interests and mutual growth.

To learn more about British Columbia’s Taiwan office, contact Trade and Investment BC.