Taiwan In-Depth 2 Taiwan In-Depth 1

Traditional cultures associated with Chinese immigrants, aboriginal cultures, Japanese cultures (due to Japan�s 50-year rule), and Western cultures, have been interacting with each other for a century in Taiwan to nurture new Taiwanese cultures. The multinational flavors of new Taiwanese cultures are vividly shown in performance arts such as Taiwanese operas (Kua-Hi) and pop music.

In the meantime, Taiwan remains to be an importer of multinational cultures. People can watch any major TV programs from stations in USA, Japan and other countries at home. This cultural import continues to nurture the new Taiwanese cultures.

Taiwan is the capital of Chinese Cuisine. It provides the best tasting Chinese food.

A wide variety of Taiwanese-styled food are popular everywhere in Taiwan.

In addition, Japanese, European, Southeast Asian, and American food are available in cities.

The government system is a Legislative Democracy. The current head of state is President Chen Shui-Bian who was elected in 2000 by direct popular elections.

The legislative system is a one-house system, the Legislative, consisting of 225 seats.

Freedom of speech is vigorously protected by the new constitution. Many now consider Taiwan as the most democratic nation in Asia.

There are three major political parties in Taiwan: the Democratic Progressive Party (the ruling party), the Kuomingtang, and the People's First Party.

The GDP in Taiwan is US$357 billion and the per capita GDP is US$17,000.

Taiwan ranks 17th in the world in its GDP.

Taiwan is the US's 6th largest trading partner.

Taiwan produces 70% of the world's computer chips. Its high-end electronics, quality textiles, plastics, and other manufactureers now reach around the globe.