By : JD News Editor
Jordan Daily – Taiwan celebrated on Wednesday its National Day with a reception hosted by the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Jordan, where Representative Ali Yang underscored Taiwan’s strategic role in global trade, economic success, and its growing partnership with Jordan.
In his remarks, Yang outlined Taiwan’s economic accomplishments, citing the country’s role in the global supply chain.Taiwan ranks 19th in the world for trade volume, with a Gross National Product that is 22nd globally.
He noted that Taiwan produces over 60% of the world’s semiconductors and 90% of its high-end chips, supporting the international technology sector. In 2023, Taiwan’s trade volume reached $784.4 billion, and by year-end, Taiwanese investments abroad amounted to $455.8 billion, largely driven by high-tech industries. Taiwan is ranked as the eighth most competitive economy globally, according to the Global Competitiveness Yearbook 2024 published by the Swiss-based IMD.
Yang highlighted Taiwan’s strategic importance, particularly the Taiwan Strait—a key route for global trade where 50% of the world’s container shipping passes and over 1.5 million flights cross annually. “Maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is essential for global trade,” Yang noted. Taiwan has taken steps to bolster its defense capabilities and strengthen partnerships with countries that value peace, he added.
Despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations, Taiwan and Jordan enjoy a strong, cooperative relationship, Yang said. Taiwan is one of Jordan’s largest investors, with eight textile factories providing 7,000 jobs and contributing 6% to Jordan’s annual exports. Bilateral trade reached $380 million last year, with Taiwan sourcing essential minerals from Jordan, such as phosphorus and potassium fertilizers.
Yang also praised Jordan’s humanitarian efforts in hosting millions of refugees from conflict zones, acknowledging the country’s contributions to regional stability. Taiwan has partnered with Jordan to provide aid for thousands of refugees and local families, collaborating with various Jordanian government bodies and non-governmental organizations.
“Taiwan and Jordan play crucial roles in maintaining stability in the Far East and the Middle East, respectively,” Yang said. “We share values of peace, human rights, and the rule of law.” He expressed hopes for continued collaboration between the two countries amid global challenges.
The evening reception featured Taiwanese delicacies, tea, coffee, and a virtual reality experience by HTC, offering guests a taste of Taiwanese innovation and culture.
