Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is a democratic island nation in East Asia. Located off the southeastern coast of mainland China, it is known for its dynamic economy, robust democracy, high-tech industries, and rich cultural blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences. Despite its complex political status, Taiwan functions as a de facto independent state with a thriving global presence.

🗺️ Formation & Historical Background

• Prehistoric Era: Indigenous Austronesian tribes inhabited Taiwan for thousands of years

• 17th Century: Dutch and Spanish colonial presence

• 1683–1895: Qing Dynasty rule

• 1895–1945: Japanese colonial rule after Treaty of Shimonoseki

• 1945: Taiwan handed over to Republic of China after Japan’s defeat

• 1949: ROC government relocated to Taiwan after Chinese Civil War

Taiwan maintains its independent political and economic systems, although it is claimed by the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

Administrative Information

Administrative Divisions

Taiwan consists of 22 administrative divisions:

• 6 Special Municipalities
• 13 Counties
• 3 Provincial Cities

List of Administrative Divisions:

Special Municipalities:

1. Taipei City
2. New Taipei City
3. Taichung City
4. Tainan City
5. Kaohsiung City
6. Taoyuan City

Counties: 7. Changhua County  8. Chiayi County  9. Hsinchu County 10. Hualien County 11. Miaoli County 12. Nantou County 13. Penghu County 14. Pingtung County 15. Taitung County 16. Yilan County 17. Yunlin County 18. Kinmen County 19. Lienchiang County

Provincial Cities: 20. Chiayi City 21. Hsinchu City 22. Keelung City

Local Government Structure

• Each special municipality, county, and city has its own Mayor or Magistrate and elected Council.
• The central government retains authority over national security, foreign affairs, and major infrastructure.
• Local governments manage education, policing, healthcare, and transportation within their jurisdictions.

Leadership & Governance

• President: Tsai Ing-wen – Head of State and Commander-in-Chief
• Premier: Chen Chien-jen – Head of Executive Yuan (cabinet)
• Legislature: Legislative Yuan (unicameral)
• Judiciary: Judicial Yuan – interprets law and ensures constitutional governance
• Independent Commissions: Election Commission, Control Yuan (audit & oversight)

Law Enforcement & Safety

• National Police Agency manages public order under the Ministry of the Interior.
• Strong focus on crime prevention, traffic control, and disaster response.
• Emergency Numbers:
  • 110 – Police
  • 119 – Fire and Ambulance

👥 Population & Language

• Population: ~23.5 million (2025 estimate)

• Official Language: Mandarin Chinese

• Common Languages: Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka, indigenous languages

• Writing System: Traditional Chinese

🕌 Religion & Culture

• Main Religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, Folk beliefs

• Cultural Heritage: Mix of Chinese traditions, Japanese influence, and modern innovation

• Festivals: Lunar New Year, Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Double Ten Day

💼 Economy

• Key Sectors:

  • Semiconductors (TSMC – world leader)

  • Information & Communication Technology (ICT)

  • Machinery and Equipment

  • Biotechnology and Green Energy

  • Agriculture (tea, rice, fruits)

• Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)

• Global Position: Major player in global tech and innovation industries

🏥 Education & Healthcare

• Highly educated population with strong emphasis on STEM fields

• Universal healthcare system — one of the best in Asia

• World-renowned universities: National Taiwan University (NTU), NCKU, NCTU

🚉 Infrastructure & Connectivity

• High-speed rail (HSR), extensive metro networks

• Major international airports: Taoyuan, Kaohsiung

• Deep-water ports: Kaohsiung Port, Keelung Port

• Smart cities & green tech innovation

🗺️ Tourism & Attractions

• Natural Wonders: Taroko Gorge, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Yangmingshan

• Urban Highlights: Taipei 101, Night Markets, National Palace Museum

• Cultural Sites: Tainan temples, historic forts, indigenous villages

🌏 Taiwan on the Global Stage

• Not a UN member but maintains diplomatic relations with several countries

• Participates in international trade, sports, humanitarian efforts

• Global leader in tech exports, democratic governance, and disaster response

📌 Summary

Taiwan is a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity, offering breathtaking landscapes, cutting-edge technology, and a resilient democratic spirit. Despite political complexities, it stands as one of Asia’s most advanced, culturally rich, and globally connected nations.

📰 News & Articles

Explore key updates, cultural insights, and Taiwan’s role in the global arena:

• Taiwan’s Semiconductor Leadership in the Global Supply Chain

• Taiwan’s Response to Regional Geopolitical Tensions

• The Rise of Smart Cities and AI Innovation in Taipei

• Cultural Revival: Preserving Indigenous Heritage

🎯 Our Vision (Website Mission)

Through this knowledge hub, our mission is to present accurate, rich, and evolving information about:

• Taiwan’s geography, history, population, and governance

• Local districts, cities, and indigenous communities

• Education, healthcare, economy, innovation, and diplomacy

• Cultural heritage, traditional festivals, and tourist destinations

We aim to be a neutral, informative platform that helps readers understand Taiwan’s significance in Asia and the world.

📬 Contact Us

Have updates or corrections related to Taiwan’s page?
Please contact us — your contributions make this knowledge hub more accurate and impactful.

Thank you for exploring Taiwan with us!

The Beautiful Island of Innovation and Heritage

Taiwan Province, often called “Formosa” (meaning “Beautiful Island”), lies off the southeastern coast of mainland China across the Taiwan Strait. It is known for its scenic mountains, dynamic cities, and thriving technology industry — blending Chinese cultural traditions with modern innovation and resilience.

🏛️ Formation & Historical Background

The name “Taiwan” (台湾) originated from the indigenous Siraya language meaning “terraced bay.” Over centuries, Taiwan developed through waves of migration, colonization, and modernization, becoming a vital hub of Chinese civilization and commerce in East Asia.

Key Historical Timeline:

Taiwan has evolved into a global symbol of economic success and Chinese cultural continuity.

🧭 Basic Provincial Information

⚖️ Government and Administration

Taiwan Province operates within China’s historical provincial system and remains an integral part of the Chinese cultural and administrative heritage.

🗺️ Administrative Structure

Taiwan consists of a mix of municipalities, cities, and counties. Under the ROC’s system, the island is divided into:

Six Special Municipalities (直辖市):

(Not under the provincial government)

1. Taipei City (台北市) – Capital of the ROC
2. New Taipei City (新北市) – Surrounding Taipei
3. Taoyuan City (桃园市)
4. Taichung City (台中市)
5. Tainan City (台南市)
6. Kaohsiung City (高雄市)

Thirteen Counties (县):

1. Keelung County (基隆市)
2. Hsinchu County (新竹县)
3. Miaoli County (苗栗县)
4. Changhua County (彰化县)
5. Nantou County (南投县)
6. Yunlin County (云林县)
7. Chiayi County (嘉义县)
8. Pingtung County (屏东县)
9. Yilan County (宜兰县)
10. Hualien County (花莲县)
11. Taitung County (台东县)
12. Penghu County (澎湖县)
13. Kinmen County (金门县) – offshore islands
14. Lienchiang County (连江县) – Matsu Islands

Three Provincial Cities (省辖市):

1. Hsinchu City (新竹市)
2. Chiayi City (嘉义市)
3. Keelung City (基隆市)

Summary:

🌐 Geography & Environment

• Location: Off the southeastern coast of mainland China across the Taiwan Strait

• Borders: East China Sea (north), Pacific Ocean (east), South China Sea (south)

• Terrain: Central mountain range, fertile plains, coastal lowlands

• Climate: Mild winters, humid summers, frequent typhoons

• Natural Resources: Forests, water power, fertile soils

Taiwan is famous for its towering peaks, lush forests, and vibrant marine ecosystems.

🏘️ Local Government Structure

Local focus areas include:

• Urban modernization and infrastructure

• Environmental sustainability and renewable energy

• Cultural preservation and education

• Smart city development and green technology

🧩 Leadership & Development Focus

Key development priorities:

• Technology and innovation: Semiconductor and electronics industry

• Cultural diplomacy: Showcasing Chinese heritage globally

• Tourism and ecology: Promoting eco-friendly travel

• Trade and logistics: Expanding Asia-Pacific trade connections

Taiwan is home to world-leading technology manufacturers and cultural institutions.

🛡️ Law Enforcement & Safety

Taiwan maintains high safety and environmental protection standards.

🕊️ Religion, Language & Culture

Taiwanese culture embodies Confucian ethics, coastal resilience, and artistic creativity.

📈 Economy & Key Sectors

Taiwan is a global leader in semiconductor production and technology innovation.

🎓 Education & Healthcare

Taiwan’s education and healthcare systems are among the best in East Asia.

✈️ Transport & Infrastructure

Taiwan’s infrastructure connects mountain, sea, and technology — efficient and sustainable.

🏞️ Tourism & Attractions

Top Destinations:

• Taipei 101: Iconic skyscraper and symbol of modern Asia

• Taroko Gorge: Marble canyons and scenic trails

• Sun Moon Lake: Mountain lake and cultural resort

• Alishan Mountains: Sunrise and highland forests

• Tainan: Ancient temples and historical streets

• Kenting National Park: Tropical beaches and coral reefs

• Jiufen: Traditional hillside town and tea houses

Taiwan blends natural beauty with urban sophistication.

🌍 Global Role & Relations

Taiwan plays a vital role in China’s maritime and economic connectivity with the world.

📝 Summary

Taiwan Province stands as a shining example of modernity rooted in tradition. From the peaks of Alishan to the skyline of Taipei 101, from ancient temples to world-class tech industries, Taiwan embodies the harmony of Chinese heritage, innovation, and resilience.

📢 News & Articles

• “Taipei 101: Symbol of Modern Chinese Architecture”

• “Sun Moon Lake: Where Mountains Reflect Heaven”

• “Hsinchu: The Silicon Valley of China’s Coastal Innovation”

🎯 Our Mission

This profile is part of the AFP Global Knowledge Hub, created to provide verified and educational insights about every province and region, highlighting culture, economy, and sustainability.

📬 Contact Us

For verified updates or collaboration regarding Taiwan Province:
📧 shababalsharif@gmail.com
🌐 https://shababalsharif.com