Bernd Barkey, Chairman, European Chamber of Commerce Taiwan

Dr Duh Tyzz-Jiun, Minister, National Development Council
杜紫軍,主任委員,國家發展委員會

Taiwan's economy is facing headwinds as a consequence of a slowdown in trade with its major trading partners. There are also a number of difficult medium and long-term challenges facing Taiwan related to demographic shifts, energy security, infrastructure development and environmental protection, among others. Dealing with these issues will require tough decisions by the government. In the face of uncertain economic prospects and difficult times ahead, the government will need to make careful assessments and wise decisions that balance current needs with future development priorities.

The ECCT's 2016 Position Papers will share European experiences, best practices and models with the government that are aimed at ensuring Taiwan's continued economic sustainability and prosperity.

As is tradition, the Minister of the National Development Council (NDC) has been invited to the launch to receive a copy of the Position Papers and make a few remarks on behalf of the Taiwan government.

The ECCT's Position Papers are published annually by the ECCT and include a collection of industry-specific issues and recommendations from a European business perspective on how to further improve the business environment in Taiwan. This year's papers, compiled by the board of directors and 23 of the ECCT's 29 committees, primarily address the Taiwan government, but also serve to inform the European Commission, the governments of the individual European member states as well as the media and the general public.