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3% 樂天點數回饋 2023/3/1 ~ 2023/3/31

1. 前往後請於24小時內完成訂單 2. 每月完成入住的訂單，於次月20日發放樂天點數（若遇假日則順延至次一工作日發放）。

• 活動期間內，從本活動頁面登入樂天會員，進入Booking.com網站預訂住宿，並於2023/6/30前完成退房之訂單，可獲得３％樂天點數回饋，點數將於入住完成月份的次月20號自動匯入樂天會員帳戶。
• 回饋資格：樂天會員須先登入樂天會員(或為樂天市場app登入狀態)，從本活動頁面，進到Booking.com網站/app，才享有回饋資格。若中途切換視窗，或直接使用Booking.com app預訂，將無法獲得樂天點數回饋。
• 若您於應獲得樂天點數回饋日期尚未獲得點數，請聯繫： [email protected] 告知您的訂單確認碼(訂單編號，共10碼數字)、訂房總價與幣別，及樂天會員帳號，若經查符合活動資格，將儘速補發點數。
• 本活動樂天點數回饋計算方式：訂房含稅之新台幣價格，以百元為單位計算點數回饋，每100元回饋3點樂天點數，不足100元之訂單金額將不列入點數計算。若使用外幣結算者，換算為新台幣之價格以booking.com系統紀錄為準。 舉例如下圖：房間價格1,653(含稅)，將回饋16*3=48點；房間價格12,870日幣(含稅)，約為2,910台幣(含稅)，將回饋29*3=87點。
• 如您取消訂單、未入住或未全程入住，將喪失獲得樂天點數回饋的資格。
• 僅限樂天市場會員才可獲得樂天點數。非會員請先加入樂天市場會員【 會員登錄（免費）請從這裡進入 】。請務必先登入樂天會員後，再預訂房間，倘若因未登入，而導致無法辨別會員，恕不補發樂天點數。
• 請確認您的瀏覽器已設定開啟cookie功能，並取消廣告阻擋程式（adblock）。點擊進入booking.com後，請於24小時內並以同一瀏覽器完成房間預訂 ，並於booking.com平台規範之付款期間內完成付款。
• 使用無痕視窗、或私密瀏覽功能進入合作網路商家瀏覽時，若中途點選其他廣告（例如Facebook、Google、其他會員連結...等），將無法取得樂天點數回饋資格。
• 從本活動頁面進入booking.com網頁/app後，如再點擊其他返利網站連結或登入其他返利網站，以至於Cookie被取代，將無法獲得此活動之樂天點數回饋。
• 參與此回饋活動，不得與其他返利網站同時擁有優惠，一經合作網路商家查證，將取消回饋樂天點數資格。
• 參加者於本活動所提供之個人資料，同意台灣樂天市場於本次活動、行銷、市場研究範圍內處理及利用。
• 樂天市場保有隨時修改、變更、暫停或終止本活動辦法及注意事項規範之權利。如對本活動辦法及注意事項之規範有疑義或爭議時，樂天市場擁有最終解釋權及決定權。 如有未盡事宜，樂天市場得隨時補充公告於活動網站，不再另行通知。
• 本頁面為Booking.com提供之房間預訂，台灣樂天市場不保證商家或商品之真實性、正確性、合法性及實際狀態等情形，如您有訂房相關問題，請聯繫Booking.com客服： https://secure.booking.com/help
• 對於本活動有任何疑問，請聯繫： [email protected]

樂天點數發送日期與效期：

• 樂天點數發送日期：於完成入住月份的次月20號發送(若遇假日則順延至次一工作日發放)
• 樂天點數請於使用期限內使用完畢，台灣樂天市場將不針對樂天點數贈送與使用期限等訊息另行通知，請務必注意上述樂天點數期限，若因個人因素導致樂天點數超過使用期限，將無法退還或兌換現金，恕不得更換其他贈品。
• 樂天點數的使用：每張訂單最多可折抵10,000點，單月最高使用上限為30,000點。
• 除上述注意事項，各活動請參照各活動之活動說明與注意事項。各活動如有未盡事宜，台灣樂天市場擁有保留修改活動內容之權利，修改訊息將於本網站上公佈，恕不另行通知。

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Guide To Traveling in Taiwan

Last Updated: 12/18/2023

Published: 02/18/2021

I may make commissions from purchases made through links.  Read here for more information. And as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This is an overview of everything you should know when visiting Taiwan.

I’ve lived in Taiwan for more than 5 years and want to help you have an optimal experience when traveling. The following sections will briefly cover important information. Follow links attached to each point to learn more.

Taiwan does not currently have any travel restrictions.

The small island country is famous for many items, brands, and services you may have heard of:

• It’s the birthplace of bubble tea (pearl milk tea)
• Vegetarian-friendliness: Taiwan has the third-highest rate of vegetarianism, leading to many vegetarian and vegan businesses [ 1 ]
• Low-cost and efficient healthcare
• Betel nut beauties. They’re young women who sell betel nuts from enclosures while wearing revealing clothing.
• Home to various night markets—areas lined with street food stands.
• Home to major brands such as ASUS, Acer, HTC, and MSI.
• Beef noodle soup.

Taiwan Visas & Travel Restrictions

Countries that are a part of Taiwan’s visa exemption program can enter Taiwan for 15–90 days without a visa for the purpose of visiting family/friends, tourism, and business .

I list all these countries in a separate guide.

And if you don’t have a passport for those countries, you’ll need one of these visas:

Airlines That Fly to Taiwan

Popular airlines that fly to Taiwan include:

Don’t forget to see if you’re eligible for cashback rewards or airline mileage when browsing for flights. If you’ve built up enough points, you could fly for free.

Use a reward program management app like Awardwallet to keep track of all your memberships.

Power Outlet Type Used in Taiwan

Taiwan’s power outlets run on 110V supply voltage and 60Hz .

The same as the United States uses.

If you come from Australia, Europe, or Southeast Asia, you should consider investing in and bringing a universal power adapter.

What Cities Should I Visit in Taiwan?

Here are all the different cities you should visit in Taiwan:

What To Do When Traveling in Taiwan

Your plane’s landed, you’re past immigration, and you’re free to roam the airport. Snag your SIM card or pocket WiFi from their counters.

Convert your currency.

Pick up your luggage.

Then head to one of Taiwan’s many 7-11s for a NT$10 ($0.36) egg bathed in tea.

Finally, go to your accommodation and unpack—or store your luggage—and explore.

Here are things to do throughout various cities in Taiwan:

And you can’t visit Taiwan without indulging in a Taiwanese night market. Here’s a list of markets spread throughout Taiwan:

Taiwan Travel Costs & Best Souvenirs

Here are some common costs of traveling to Taipei (Taiwan’s most expensive city):

† Varies depending on the restaurant chosen.

How Much Should I Budget for a Trip to Taiwan?

Budget at least $500 on the lower end for a 7-day trip to Taiwan . However, that’s if you want to save the most money possible. It’s extreme budgeting, but still enjoy your time in Taiwan while saving money.

You could pay around $30 a night with a hostel or low-cost hotel for decent accommodation. A ballpark estimate of close to $210 once done.

A SIM card will cost under $10 for 7 days of unlimited 4G data. If you want to live off Wi-Fi instead, cut costs here. Don’t forget to explore Taiwan’s free public Wi-Fi, iTaiwan.

Taking the slow train to another city usually costs $12.55–$28.40 per trip. If you’re riding the subway, it will likely cost more than $9.00 a day. 

The total of your spending depends on how much you want to take public transportation.

On average, meals often cost between $1.40–$4.00 per person , whether you go to restaurants or night market stalls. Possibly a little more than $5.00 a day if you’re frugal.

If you eat at 7-Eleven for every meal, you’ll probably spend nearly the same amount per meal (food and drink).

Speaking of food, coffee.

If you want to opt for a coffee chain, Taiwan-based Louisa Coffee’s prices average around $3.05 per cup. Are you staying for a while? Sign up for the Louisa membership program through LINE or Facebook Messenger to potentially save a little money. Also, bringing a water bottle from home could probably knock off a couple of cents.

Otherwise, find cheap coffee at any convenience store if you need a fix.

Cigarettes usually cost around $4 a pack if you’re a smoker. A lot of Taiwanese cigarettes come from Japan. Moreover, finding brands like Camel and American Spirit is rare, possibly impossible. However, you will find plenty of Marlboro and Lucky Strike.

You could experience much of Taiwan without paying for any attractions, minus the transportation costs. However, even entry to Taiwanese attractions offers affordable pricing.

For instance, you’ll pay $6.80 for admission to the Taipei 101 Observatory.

I wrote a more thorough guide on typical Taiwan costs . Check it out.

Best Taiwan Souvenirs

Here are all the souvenirs I recommend getting while in Taiwan :

Here are some clarifications on some items in the above table. You’ll need to visit a separate guide I wrote on the subject for further clarification on each item, though.

P.Seven Perfume is tea-scented perfume. 3D smart cards are limited edition EasyCards, iPass, or icash 2.0 cards. Name stamps (chops) are what Taiwanese use to add “signatures” to official documents.

Taiwan Tourist Tax Refund

Taiwan offers tourists and visitors a 5% VAT refund on goods more than NT$2,000 . But they’ll charge you a 14% handling fee. If you buy stuff from the shopping center, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, your total purchases must sit at more than NT$3,000.

To claim your refund, you’ll need:

• Travel documents : plane tickets, etc.
• Entry stamp : for those who entered without a visa
• Passport of your home country
• Visa : if that’s how you entered Taiwan

I’ve covered shopping centers and buildings where to claim tourist tax refunds in a separate guide. It would take me too long to explain it here.

Is Traveling in Taiwan Safe?

Other than some typhoons and frequent earthquakes, Taiwan’s one of the safest countries for tourists . Crime rates have remained low over the years.

However, you may encounter rare cases of pickpocketing in crowded tourist zones. Just keep an eye on your stuff, and don’t put belongings in your back pockets.

Is Taiwan Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Taiwan is safe for solo female travelers. Taiwan is also a safe country for LGBTQ+ travelers to visit.

Even though it’s safe, don’t get drunk alone, and make sure to exercise caution whenever roaming the streets alone in the middle of the night [ 2 ].

What Currency Is Used in Taiwan?

The New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$) is Taiwan’s official currency . Their currency uses a mix of paper banknotes and metal coins. Moreover, the general word for money in Mandarin Chinese is 元 (yuán).

Here’s a list of New Taiwan Dollar denominations you’ll find:

Where Do You Exchange Currency in Taiwan?

Exchange your country’s currency at the following locations in Taiwan:

• Department stores
• Currency exchange kiosks

The following dives deeper into each currency-conversion method and what one triumphs over the rest.

Compared to other airports, Taoyuan at least offers live exchange rates [ 3 airport guide]. However, they might charge you a transaction fee.

ATMs offer some of the best rates. Make sure that your bank will reimburse some or all your fees. Going this route will also save you from waiting at the bank. Furthermore, to avoid a NT$100 fee, use the Bank of Taiwan’s ATMs.

Banks. As of now, if you want to exchange your money without fees at the best rates, I recommend going to the Bank of Taiwan (government-owned). Check this bank’s exchange rate before withdrawing for the best conversion rates.

If Taiwanese friends need your currency, look up the going rate and trade your cash. It’s mutually beneficial. Be sure to stay up-to-date with peer-to-peer currency exchange laws.

Taiwan’s department stores offer currency exchange services as well. In addition, malls are an excellent alternative to banks since they’re open longer.

Exchanging currency in Taiwan isn’t like in other cities in Asia. The government strictly regulates it. Therefore, you can only exchange money at banks or authorized establishments.

Taiwan has one ATM per 826 residents [ 4 ]. That means they have the highest ATM density in the world. Don’t worry; you can’t go far without an ATM nearby to exchange currency.

Formosa Fun fact: If you love crisp bills, withdraw money around the Lunar New Year. You will encounter a pleasant surprise.

How to Differentiate Real & Fake New Taiwan Dollars

It’s rare to find fake banknotes in Taiwan . But you should know how to prevent yourself from accidentally giving one to a cashier.

Here’s how to identify real New Taiwan Dollar bills:

• The lower left corner number should change colors when viewed at different angles
• You’ll see a number: e.g. the number “100” on a NT$100 bill
• You should see a watermark that’s invisible otherwise: e.g. flower on the NT$100 bill

And here are visuals:

Can I Use Cryptocurrency in Taiwan?

You can use cryptocurrency in Taiwan . The island country has no laws or regulations that prohibit purchasing, mining, or holding cryptocurrency. However, the Central Bank of the Republic of China (Taiwan) does not label crypto as legitimate currencies.

Instead, the government labels them as virtual commodities.

As far as I’ve seen, Taiwanese vendors and shops don’t allow crypto as payment. 

Best Month to Visit Taiwan

October is the best month to visit Taiwan . During this time, the average highs sit around 27°C (81°F), while the lows at 22°C (72°F). Therefore, October’s also an ideal month to visit for you who don’t mind the heat or want to visit Taiwan’s outlying islands.

It’s also great because the typhoon season’s over, so you don’t have to worry about that.

If you want to avoid holiday tourists, adhere to the following tip. Keep the date October 10th in mind because that’s Taiwan’s National Day.

You will have dodged most of Taiwan’s holidays, school, and college classes will have started.

Best of all, when flying in October, you’ll avoid flying during the peak summer season. You’ll also dodge the holiday season (November and December), giving you the best deal on your tickets.

I cover more details about what Taiwan would be like each month. That way, you’ll make the best decision possible

Which Month Is Typhoon Season in Taiwan?

July through September is the time frame of Taiwan’s typhoon season .

If you travel to this island country during that time, come prepared with rain gear, proper footwear, and a cover for your backpack.

Prepaid SIM Cards

If you need a phone number, I recommend purchasing a SIM card in Taiwan if you stay for less than a month. Pre-order a SIM card from a vacation package website, or sign up for a provider once you arrive.

Taiwan has a few significant contenders who offer SIM cards:

• ChungHwa Telecom (largest telecom)
• Far Eastone
• Taiwan Mobile

I’ve covered all the pricing and data more in-depth in a separate guide.

If you’re traveling to multiple countries and use an eSIM phone , I recommend using Airalo . They provide affordable and multi-regional eSIM cards that make it so you don’t need to sign up for multiple providers

And sometimes they cost less than what travel deal websites charge.

If you intend on staying in Taiwan for more than a month, I recommend Google Fi . It’s a somewhat affordable cell phone plan that’s amazing for traveling. With the starter plan, you get 10 GB of data. However, you’ll want the unlimited plan if you’re a data hog.

You’ll have to activate Google Fi while you’re in the US.

Portable Wi-Fi: Is it Worth Getting?

Get portable Wi-Fi to connect multiple devices to a private internet connection . And I’d recommend a private internet connection if you want to access banking websites.

DON’T do this over guest Wi-Fi networks. Unless you love living on the edge and risking your information getting hacked.

If you want pocket Wi-Fi in multiple countries, I recommend Skyroam Solis. The global hotspot provides an excellent tool for those who are venturing through various countries in Asia. Because you’ll just update your data plans online.

No having to pick up and drop off pocket routers.

What if you don’t care about using public networks?

If you’re in Taipei, register your passport and have free Wi-Fi throughout the city. The same applies to other parts of the country. You may also find free Wi-Fi in malls, convenience stores (if you’re a member), and other establishments like Starbucks .

How to Get Around & Rent Vehicles in Taiwan

Here are all the different ways to get around Taiwan:

You won’t need cars unless you intend on road tripping through Taiwan’s main island or traversing the countryside. Since you can’t rent motorbikes easily.

To rent a car, you must be aged 20 years or older and have an international driving permit . How you’ll get this permit depends on the country you’re from. I cover general steps of renting a car in Taiwan in a separate guide.

But if you want to compare car rental prices, here are some of the most popular providers:

What Should I Pack When Traveling in Taiwan?

Here’s what you should pack when traveling to Taiwan :

I have tested and frequently use all of these products except for the travel adapter and the backpack cover. I do have the travel adapter on my list of things to buy, though. I do thorough research on the products I recommend. As I always want to use the “best” of whatever I buy.

In short, what you need to pack for Taiwan depends on your itinerary. For instance, if you plan to hike, I recommend hiking boots. I stress the importance of boots due to potentially poisonous snakes that slither through hiking paths.

However, the two most essential items I recommend packing are moisture-absorbing packets and vacuum bags.

Because Taiwan’s humid. And the humidity will ruin your items if you don’t take precautions. I’ve lost a lot of items to humidity, don’t let your stuff suffer the same fate.

Regarding smaller items like sunscreen, you can buy what you need once you get to Taiwan. You’ll find most items at supermarkets like Carrefour and PX Mart or in traditional markets.

How Can I Store My Luggage in Taiwan?

Store your luggage in Taiwan using the various lockers available nationwide or mobile applications.

If you’re out and about and don’t want to carry any baggage , most trains and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) stations offer affordable storage options. In addition, specific shopping centers like IKEA also provide lockers for you to store your luggage.

If you’d rather know what’s available ahead of time, consider using a service such as Lalalocker . You book online, drop off your luggage, and use a “reclaim ticket,” along with your identification, to pick it up.

They also offer unique fridge storage along with long-term storage. In addition, Lalalocker gives NT$10,000 ($359) in compensation per bag if you find your luggage damaged or lost.

Dos & Don’ts in Taiwan

• Take off your shoes when entering someone’s home
• Stand on the right side of escalators; walk on the left
• Avoid dark blue seats (in Taipei) unless you’re pregnant, old, or disabled
• Learn a few Mandarin phrases
• Mention death or the number four
• Open a gift in front of the gifter
• Leave your chopsticks upright in a bowl

I cover a lot more information on etiquette in Taiwan in a separate piece. Check it out to learn more.

Resources & Tools for Traveling in Taiwan

The following are free and paid resources that’ll help you through Taiwan, prevent bad situations, and mitigate unpredictable scenarios.

If you have any questions about Taiwan, the following sources can provide additional information:

• Taiwan Reddit
• Forumosa : Taiwan-orientated community
• A local Taiwanese representative office
• Taiwanese locals

1. Useful Phone Numbers in Taiwan:

2. best mobile applications to use in taiwan.

I recommend downloading the following apps before visiting Taiwan:

Goods that aren’t refundable include duty-free items, hotel stays, restaurant bills, and items that you can’t take on planes.

Keep reading to find frequently asked questions about traveling to Taiwan.

What Do They Wear in Taiwan?

What Taiwanese wear depends on the time of the year. If you’re in the city, you’ll mostly see Taiwanese people dressed for work—suit, tie, dress shirt, skirts, and other business attire. Otherwise, people will dress for the weather.

Is It Easy To Get Around Taiwan With English?

While many people don’t speak English, if you have a translation app or a friend, you’ll have an easy time getting around Taiwan with only knowing English .

More Guides for Visitors

• TPASS Transportation Card Guide 07/10/2023
• Taiwan Packing List 03/01/2023
• Taiwan Hot Springs: An Overview 01/26/2023
• Taiwan Travel Costs 12/10/2022
• Taiwan Winter Packing List 10/28/2022
• How to Rent a Car in Taiwan 10/27/2022
• Is Taiwan Safe to Visit? 10/21/2022

Even More Guides

Taiwan Delicacies to Bring Home

What to Buy in Taiwan Supermarkets

Things to Buy in Taipei for Souvenirs

Sing Ren Garden Night Market – A Visitors Guide

TPASS Transportation Card Guide

Taiwan Packing List

Keelung Night Market – Visitors Guide

Tonghua Night Market – Visitors Guide

Theodore began first experienced the wonders of traveling when visiting Vietnam. Afterward, he went crazy and ventured to at least… More about Theo

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Travel Advisory July 11, 2023

Taiwan - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review with minor edits.

Exercise normal precautions in Taiwan.

Read the  Taiwan International Travel Information  page for additional information on travel to Taiwan.

If you decide to travel to Taiwan:

• Follow the U.S. Department of State on  Facebook  and  Twitter .
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the  security report for Taiwan  from the Overseas Security Advisory Council.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.

Embassy Message

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Valid throughout duration of stay

1 page per entry/exit stamp

Not required for stay of less than 90 days

None required. Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends travelers to Taiwan be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. Vaccination information can be found here .

Declare cash amounts over 100,000 New Taiwan Dollars (NTD), foreign currencies over 10,000 USD, or over 20,000 Chinese Yuan (RMB). Customs details are here.

Embassies and Consulates

The American Institute in Taiwan, Taipei Main Office 100 Jinhu Road, Neihu District Taipei 114017, Taiwan Telephone:  +886-2-2162 2000 ext. 2306 Emergency After-Hours Telephone:  +886-2-2162 2000 Fax:  +886-2-2162 2239 Email:   [email protected]

The American Institute in Taiwan, Kaohsiung Branch Office 5th Floor, No. 88, Chenggong 2nd Road, Qianzhen District Kaohsiung 806618, Taiwan Telephone:   +886-7-335 5006 Emergency After-Hours Telephone   +886-2-2162 2000 Fax:  +886-7-338-0551 Email:   [email protected]

The United States maintains unofficial relations with the people on Taiwan through the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), a private nonprofit corporation, which performs U.S. citizen and consular services similar to those at embassies.

Schedule routine American Citizen Services appointments online. Appointments are available Monday through Thursday except on Taiwan and U.S. holidays .

Destination Description

See the U.S. Department of State’s Fact Sheet on Taiwan for information on U.S.-Taiwan relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

If you wish to enter Taiwan as a tourist or short-term visitor (less than 90 days), you do not need a visa. No extensions or changes of status are permitted. For visa-waiver travel, your U.S. passport must be valid through the number of days you intend to stay. Six-month passport validity is not required.

If you plan to stay longer than 90 days or plan to work or reside in Taiwan, you need a Taiwan visa prior to traveling. Visit the website for the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in the United States for the most current visa information.

Taiwan and the United States both allow dual nationality. If you have dual Taiwan-U.S. nationality, you must enter/exit Taiwan on your Taiwan passport and enter/exit the United States on your U.S. passport.

See our website for information on  dual nationality  or the  prevention of international child abduction .

Also see our  Customs Information page .

Taiwan does not have any specific COVID-19 entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

Safety and Security

Potential for Civil Disturbances: Taiwan enjoys a vibrant democracy, and both spontaneous and planned demonstrations occur.  Monitor media coverage of local and regional events and avoid public demonstrations.

Potential for Typhoons and Earthquakes:  During the typhoon season (May through November),  Taiwan’s Central Weather Bureau  issues typhoon warnings an average of five times a year (of which, three to four normally make landfall) and heavy rainstorm alerts more frequently. Taiwan also has severe earthquakes. The most recent severe earthquakes included one that caused 2,000 deaths in 1999 and another that caused 117 deaths with widespread damage in 2016.

Disaster Preparedness:

• Follow the guidance of local authorities in the event of a disaster. See the National Fire Agency’s page for information on “ Disaster Responses .”
• See the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website  on how to prepare for an emergency.  
• See also the Crisis and  Disaster  Abroad page of the Bureau of Consular Affairs website.
• When an emergency arises, we will post up-to-date instructions specific to the circumstances of the event on our  website  and send messages to U.S. citizens who have registered through the Department of State’s  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .

Crime:  There is minimal street crime in Taiwan, and violent crime is rare. Take normal safety precautions, such as avoiding travel after dark or in deserted/unfamiliar areas.  

See the U.S. Department of State's  and the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)’s pages for information on scams.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should contact the American Institute in Taiwan for assistance at +886-2-2162 2000. U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should also seek medical attention and report to the police as soon as possible for help.

• Dial 113 to reach the Taipei Center for the Prevention of Domestic violence and Sexual Assault.
• Dial 110 to report crimes to the local police.

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See the U.S. Department of State’s website on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas , as well as AIT’s webpage for  local resources .

• assist you in reporting a crime to the police.
• assist you with emergency needs that arise from the crime, such as finding shelter, food, or clothing.
• provide information to facilitate access to appropriate medical care.
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent.
• provide a list of local attorneys.
• provide information on  victim’s compensation programs in the United States .
• explain financial assistance options, such as assistance available to return to the United States.
• replace a lost or stolen passport.

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence should call 113 for emergency assistance and dial 110 for an island-wide toll-free hotline. Dial 113 to reach the Taipei Center for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault. U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may also contact the American Institute in Taiwan for assistance at +886-2-2162 2000.

Domestic violence is considered a crime in Taiwan. Report to police and keep written records of all incidents. Preserve evidence such as medical records documenting injuries, photos of injuries, police records, and damaged clothing and weapons used against you. If you have a court-issued restraining order, present this to the police for use in the arrest of the offender.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:   You are subject to local laws.  If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.

Some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. See  crimes against minors abroad  and the  U.S. Department of Justice  website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison authorities to notify the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT) immediately. 

• The American Institute can provide a list of English-speaking lawyers .  
• Taiwan authorities typically do not permit foreigners accused of crimes to leave Taiwan while legal proceedings are ongoing. 
• Penalties for illegal drug possession, use, or trafficking are severe, with long jail sentences and heavy fines.
• Taiwan also has the death penalty for certain violent crimes and drug offenses.  
• See the U.S. Department of State’s  webpage  for further information. 

Labor Disputes:

• Avoid labor disputes by establishing all terms and conditions of employment or sponsorship in the labor contract at the beginning of your employment.
• If the dispute cannot be resolved directly with your employer, the American Institute can provide  a list of English-speaking lawyers .

Customs Regulations:  Taiwan has strict regulations on importing/exporting firearms, antiquities, medications, currency, and ivory. Contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States for specific information  regarding customs requirements . See also  customs regulations .

Dual Nationality and Compulsory Military Service:  Taiwan has compulsory military service for Taiwan males between the ages of 18 and 36.  This includes dual U.S.-Taiwan citizens who enter Taiwan on their U.S. passports . Before you travel, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States to determine your military service status. 

Faith-Based Travelers:   See our following webpages for details:

• Faith-Based Travel Information
• International Religious Freedom Reports
• Country Reports on Human Rights Practices
• Hajj Fact Sheet for Travelers
• Best Practices for Volunteering Abroad

Health Screening Process:  To detect and prevent the spread of diseases, Taiwan scans the body temperature of all arriving passengers with an infrared thermal apparatus. Symptomatic passengers are required to fill out a form and may need to give an onsite specimen or see local health authorities. See also the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website .

Judicial Assistance:  Authorities on Taiwan provide judicial assistance in response to letters rogatory from foreign courts in accordance with Taiwan's "Law Governing Extension of Assistance to Foreign Courts." For further information, please go to the  American Institute in Taiwan (AIT)’s website .

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) rights events in Taiwan. Taiwan law prohibits education and employment discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation. On May 24, 2019, Taiwan legalized same sex marriages upon registration with a local household registration office in Taiwan. Same sex marriages from other countries are recognized in Taiwan. LGBTQI+ individuals may still face lack of tolerance, particularly in areas outside the capital and largest city Taipei. See  Section 6 of our Human Rights Practices in the Human Rights Report for Taiwan  and read our  LGBTQI+ Travel Information page .

Travelers Who Require Accessibility Assistance:  Taiwan law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities and sets minimum fines for violations. By law, new public buildings, facilities, and transportation equipment must be accessible to persons with disabilities. See  Persons with Disabilities in the Human Rights Report for Taiwan (2022) .

Students: See our  U.S. Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips .

Women Travelers: If you are a woman traveling abroad, please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Taiwan has modern medical facilities, with state-of-the-art equipment available at many hospitals and clinics. Physicians are well trained, and many have studied in the United States and speak English. Hospital nursing services provide medication and wound care but generally do not provide the daily patient care functions found in U.S. hospitals. Taiwan requires masks in healthcare facilities and ambulances to prevent the spread of diseases, including COVID-19.

For emergency services in Taiwan, dial 119.

Ambulance services are

• widely available;
• have emergency equipment and supplies;
• and are staffed by trained medical personnel.

We do not pay medical bills . Be aware that U.S. Medicare/Medicaid does not apply overseas. Taiwan hospitals and doctors do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription. Check with the Taiwan Ministry of Health and Welfare to ensure the medication is legal in Taiwan.

Vaccinations: Be up to date on all routine vaccinations recommended by the U.S. CDC . Vaccinations are available at all major Taiwan hospitals.

Dengue Fever:  In recent years, Taiwan has seen cases of dengue fever, a virus common in subtropical regions that is spread through mosquito bites. There is currently no vaccine or medicine to prevent dengue. Travelers can protect themselves by preventing mosquito bites. For information on how to reduce the risk of contracting dengue, please visit  the U.S. CDC website .

COVID-19: Major Taiwan healthcare facilities have COVID-19 testing capabilities and can administer FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccines.

Air Quality: Visit AirNow Department of State for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

The American Institute in Taiwan does not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

For further health information :

• World Health Organization (WHO)
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Road conditions, lighting, and traffic safety in cities and on major highways are generally good. Roads in major cities are generally congested. Be alert for the many scooters and motorcycles that weave in and out of traffic. Motor scooters are common throughout the island. Be alert for scooters when stepping out of public buses or exiting a car. Exercise caution when crossing streets because many drivers do not respect the pedestrian's right of way. Be especially cautious when driving on mountain roads, which are typically narrow, winding, and poorly banked, and which may be impassable after heavy rains. For example, Taiwan’s central cross-island highway is meandering and often has poor visibility. Exercise caution when driving on highways.

Please see AIT’s website for more details on  Driving in Taiwan .

Traffic Laws:  Passengers in all vehicles, including taxis, are required by law to wear seatbelts. When exiting a vehicle, you are legally required to ensure that no motor scooter, bicycle, or other vehicle is approaching from behind before opening the door. You will be fully liable for any injuries or damages if you fail to do so. Do not turn right on a red traffic signal. It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving without a hands-free kit in Taiwan. The legal limit for alcohol in the bloodstream of drivers in Taiwan is 15 mg per 100 ml of blood (0.03% BAC). This limit is strictly enforced. It is useful to have proof of car insurance and proof of ownership of the vehicle. On-the-spot fines are very common for minor traffic offences in Taiwan and are fixed for each offense. You will be told where to pay the fines and within what period of time. For more serious driving offenses, you will receive a court appearance.

Standard international driving laws apply with a few exceptions:

• You must have a warning triangle in your car to use if you break down or are involved in an accident.
• You cannot turn on a red light unless indicated.
• Many drivers run red lights, especially just after they change.

In an emergency:

• If you have a problem with your car, call the number on the rental documents or attached to the windscreen of your car.
• In the event of an accident, you should call the police “110” and medical assistance “119.” Provide the police with all the important information including the type of accident, details of vehicles involved and if there are any injuries or fatalities. The second call you should make is to your insurance company.
• You will need a police report for your insurance company. While waiting for the police, take photographs of the scene and take the names, addresses and telephone numbers of any witnesses. Do not move the vehicles unless it is necessary for safety reasons.
• Police will not ask for bribes.
• Police will ask parties involved in the traffic accident to do an alcohol test. This is standard operating procedure.
• If riding a motor scooter, you must wear a helmet.

For specific information concerning Taiwan’s driver’s permits, vehicle inspection road tax, and mandatory insurance, contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office (TECRO) in Washington, D.C., or the nearest Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in the United States.

Public Transportation:  Public transportation is cheap, convenient, and generally safe. Uber is widely available for use. Taxis and buses may swerve to the side of the road to pick up passengers with little notice or regard for other vehicles.

Please refer to our  Road Safety  page for more information. Refer also to Taiwan’s  Road Traffic Safety Portal .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed Taiwan’s Civil Aeronautics Administration (CAA) as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of Taiwan's air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s Safety Assessment Page .

Maritime Travel:  Mariners planning travel to Taiwan should check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Maritime Security Communications with Industry (MSCI) web portal. Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport website , and the U.S. National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) Navigational Warnings website .

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in Taiwan . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA ) report.

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• Asia Pacific

Rakuten Group services in the Asia Pacific region

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Taiwan Rakuten Ichiba

Online shopping in Taiwan

All Rakuten Services in Japan

A diverse range of services in e-commerce, FinTech, ad tech and digital content

Taiwan Rakuten Card

Credit card issue and related services in Taiwan

Rakuten Monkeys

Professional baseball club business in Taiwan

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Internet banking service in Taiwan

Major Offices

Rakuten asia pte. ltd., taiwan rakuten ichiba, inc., rakuten group, inc., rakuten institute of technology, rakuten china development center co., ltd., taiwan rakuten card, inc., lamigo monkeys co., rakuten international commercial bank co., ltd..

updated : Mar 8, 2024

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Founded in Tokyo in 1997 as an online marketplace, Rakuten Group, Inc. is a global leader in internet services that empower individuals, communities, businesses and society. We have more than 25 businesses and 6,000 employees across APAC. Our business focus in the region ranges from e-commerce and fintech to advertising and sports, in addition to serving as a technology hub for the Group.

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Rakuten's mission is to contribute to society through innovation and entrepreneurship .

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Rakuten Travel is a leading online travel agency in Japan under the Rakuten Group. Launched in 2001, it offers Japan's broadest selection of hotels and other accommodation facilities for both leisure and business travelers, as well as package tours with airlines and more. Rakuten Travel also covers accommodations in markets around the world and offers support in eight languages.

Rakuten Insight Global, Inc. (“Rakuten Insight”) is a wholly owned online market research subsidiary company of Rakuten Group, Inc. Rakuten Insight was established in 1997 as AIP Corporation and became part of the Rakuten Group in 2014. Rakuten Insight possesses a research panel focusing on 12 major Asian markets & the U.S., and a panel network covering 60 countries and regions. With offices in 11 countries and regions, Rakuten Insight provides market research for over 500 leading companies around the world.

Rakuten Travel Xchange is the accommodation wholesale and travel technology division within the Rakuten Group. The company distributes their global inventory of over 700,000 unique hotel and vacation rental properties and directly negotiated rates of Rakuten Travel and Rakuten STAY.

Taiwan Rakuten Ichiba was the first overseas subsidiary of the Rakuten Group. Since its establishment in 2008, Rakuten Ichiba has successfully reinvigorated the e-commerce market in Taiwan, providing consumers with a wide range of high-quality products and services delivered through an enjoyable shopping experience.

Rakuten's online shopping platform and e-commerce consultants have helped stores build a new business model, while its unique services have garnered a loyal customer fan base. Taiwan Rakuten Ichiba is actively seeking strategic partnership opportunities to further develop the Rakuten Ecosystem in Taiwan and accelerate the company's growth.

Rakuten International Commercial Bank (RICB) is a joint venture between Rakuten Bank and Rakuten Card ― both based in Japan ― and Taiwan's IBF Financial Holdings. RICB has been operating since January 2021 and is the first internet-only bank in Taiwan to be granted a banking license.

RICB offers innovative digital financial products and special opportunities through a formidable ecosystem, bound by Rakuten's popular loyalty program, Rakuten Points. Despite the completely online nature of the service, RICB maintains a human touch with its 24-hour customer service accessible not only through messaging or voice calls but also through video calls.

Established in 2014, Taiwan Rakuten Card (TRC) has been dedicated to connecting user payments to the growing Rakuten Ecosystem services in Taiwan and started issuing credit cards in 2015. Leveraging Rakuten's advantages, TRC offers competitive Japan-based merchant benefits to cardholders. To commemorate the Rakuten Monkeys' entry into the Rakuten Group, in 2020 TRC issued the very first baseball-themed card in Taiwan with Rakuten Monkeys players' images on the card. Targeting the travel recovery from COVID-19 in the year 2022, the company also issued a Taiwanese first-ever LCC co-branded card with Tiger Airline. As the business expands, TRC will continue to make its name as one of the top-tier Japan-travel cards in the Taiwan credit card market.

Rakuten Securities Hong Kong Limited (RSHK) is a subsidiary of Rakuten Securities, Inc. which is the largest broker in Japan in terms of number of accounts and one of the four largest forex brokers in the world. Rakuten Securities is a pioneer in leveraged foreign exchange trading in Hong Kong.

Rakuten Trade offers trading on Bursa Malaysia and U.S. Markets via a fintech platform that combines best practices from both Malaysia and Japan. The company is Malaysia's first completely online equities broker offering innovative digital investment opportunities to investors.

Rakuten Symphony is a Rakuten Group business organization with operations across Japan, the United States, Singapore, India, Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The company aims to empower the global adoption of cloud-native Open RAN infrastructure and services by mobile network operators, enterprises and government bodies. The company's vision is to provide a future-proven, cost-effective cloud connectivity platform that will democratize telecommunications around the globe.

Rakuten Sports is a Rakuten Group service that focuses on creating partnerships built on shared values with professional sports teams, athletes, brands and rights-holders.

Rakuten Capital is the corporate venture capital arm of Rakuten Group, a global leader in internet services headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. Launched in 2014, Rakuten Capital invests in and provides operational support to its portfolio companies worldwide. Rakuten Capital has invested globally in more than 70 companies, including Careem, Carousell, GoTo, Pinterest and Upstart.

Rakuten Advertising delivers people, performance and brand-driven ad solutions that help the world's top brands connect with unique, highly engaged audiences – from awareness to activation. Backed by industry-leading technology, global media properties and a leading partner ecosystem, Rakuten Advertising taps into decades of data and experience to develop the strategies and ad experiences that will drive engagement, sales, loyalty and beyond.

A leader in the industry since its beginnings, Rakuten Advertising is a division of Rakuten Group, Inc. (4755: TOKYO), one of the world's leading internet service companies. The company is headquartered in New York City, with offices throughout EMEA, APAC, LATAM and North America.

Rakuten Viki is a premier global entertainment streaming site where millions of people discover and consume primetime shows and movies subtitled in more than 200 languages, by its community of fans. With billions of videos viewed and more than 1 billion words translated, Viki brings global entertainment to fans everywhere!

Reaching more than 40 million fans in 190-plus countries, the company also includes the K-entertainment community Soompi. The website provides breaking news, exclusive events and experiences for fans of K-Pop, K-Dramas, fashion and beauty from around the world.

Rakuten Viber connects people. No matter who they are, or where they are from. The global user base has access to a range of features like one-on-one chats, video calls, group messaging, and updates and discussions with their favorite brands and celebrities. Viber ensures its users have a secure and free environment to share their emotions. Rakuten Viber is part of Rakuten Group, Inc., a world leader in internet services. It is the official instant messaging and calling app partner of the NBA's Golden State Warriors.

Rakuten Kobo Inc. is the world's digital bookseller created by and for book lovers. Owned by Tokyo-based Rakuten Group, Inc. and headquartered in Toronto, Rakuten Kobo's millions of worldwide users can read anytime, anywhere, and on any device. With a mission to make reading lives better for all, Rakuten Kobo connects readers to stories using thoughtful and personalized curation of eBooks and audiobooks, and the best dedicated eReaders and apps for reading. With the singular focus of making reading lives the best they can be, Kobo's open platform allows people to fit reading into more moments in their busy lives.

Fillr enables customers to have a seamless checkout experience everywhere. Fillr's "autofill as a service" seamlessly integrates into mobile apps, enabling customers to transact faster and boosting conversions and revenue. The company proudly powers tens of millions of transactions a month for the world's top e-commerce, fintech and buy now, pay later apps.

Situated in the heart of Singapore's Central Business District, Rakuten Asia Pte. Ltd. is Rakuten's Asia Regional Head Office. Established in August 2012 as part of Rakuten's global expansion strategy, Rakuten Asia comprises various businesses that provide essential value-added services to Rakuten's global ecosystem. Through advertisement product development, product strategy and data management, among others, Rakuten Asia is strengthening Rakuten Group's core competencies to take the lead in an increasingly digitalized world.

Rakuten India is a key development center and technology hub for Rakuten Group, Inc. The company enables Rakuten's businesses with its depth of knowledge in multiple streams of technology such as mobile and web development, web analytics, platform development, backend engineering, data science, machine learning, AI and much more.

Rakuten India's unique 24/7 support center ensures the reliability and sustainability of the Rakuten Ecosystem. With dedicated centers of excellence for mobile application development, data analytics, engineering, DevOps and information security, the company ensure the success of multiple units across the Rakuten Group. With 1,700+ employees and growing, Rakuten India is housed in Crimson House Bengaluru in the heart of the city.

The Rakuten China Development Center (Beijing), founded in October 2010, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Rakuten Group. The Shanghai branch office was established in March 2015, and the Dalian Branch Office was established in March 2019. Rakuten employees in China build platforms and networks for vertical business functions across the global Rakuten Ecosystem, including e-commerce, marketing, travel, digital content, AI and data science services.

Rakuten CNTD performs as the development center of Rakuten Group in China, leveraging the experience and cutting-edge technology accumulated by Rakuten Group in the field of e-commerce to fully empower talent in China, and provide customers with consummate and high-quality services.

Rakuten FinTech Vietnam (RFV) was newly established in October 2021 as a subsidiary company of Rakuten Card Co., Ltd., one of the leading credit card companies in Japan.

Located in Ho Chi Minh City, RFV is Rakuten Group's first overseas development center in Vietnam. The company's mission is to contribute to the growth of Rakuten's fintech business as well as Rakuten Card, by providing fintech products, services and system development.

The Rakuten Monkeys is a professional baseball team in the Chinese Professional Baseball League in Taiwan. The team played their home games at Chengcing Lake Baseball Field in Kaohsiung County from 2004 to 2010. In the 2011 season, the team's home ground moved to Taoyuan International Baseball Stadium and its name changed to the Lamigo Monkeys. After acquiring the team, Rakuten has maintained the "Monkeys" team name from the 2020 season onwards. In 2022, the team's stadium was renamed to Rakuten Taoyuan Baseball Stadium, becoming the first stadium with naming rights in Taiwan.

Rakuten Institute of Technology (RIT), the core R&D wing of Rakuten, is spread across six geographies including Tokyo, Singapore, Boston, San Mateo, Bengaluru and Paris. This division consists of AI research scientists with specialization in machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing, computer vision, knowledge discovery and data mining. This department is comprised of the following major verticals. - Customer Program: Aims to acquire a deeper customer understanding for Rakuten membership. - Language Program: Deals with automating product catalog and machine translation. - Vision Program: Its mission is to provide frictionless image-based experience. - Moonshot Initiatives: Bold and ambitious strategic initiatives taken by Rakuten. Moonshot initiatives includes programs like supporting initiatives to cure cancer using AI, quantum computing and building a fully autonomous mobile network.

Rakuten Global Express (RGX) is Rakuten’s official forwarding service, delivering products from Japan to destinations worldwide. Since its launch in 2017, RGX has continuously expanded its reach and serves over 80 regions and countries globally today. RGX offers customers the ability to consolidate their purchases from Rakuten Ichiba in Japan into a single package, enabling cost-effective shipping. RGX is committed to enhancing the shopping experience by offering efficient international logistics services.

RGX's business is available in all regions (SEA, South Asia, East Asia, Oceania)

Taiwan Rakuten Card and Tigerair team up with new credit card

Almost 15 years ago, Rakuten launched its e-commerce platform in Taiwan, before quickly expanding into e-reading , banking , and other financial services. Today, some seven million people hold a Rakuten account — more than 30% of Taiwan’s population — and Rakuten is a household name among local consumers.

In January 2015, Rakuten Card launched the Taiwan Rakuten Card, a new credit card service that integrated seamlessly into the Taiwanese Rakuten ecosystem. Leaning into Rakuten’s Japanese roots with travel discounts and other Japan-related perks, the card quickly became a popular choice for Japan-lovers, issuing over 600,000 cards as of April 2022.

On May 31, 2022, the Taiwan Rakuten Card team took their ambitions one step further, announcing the airline’s first ever co-branded credit card with airline Tigerair Taiwan. The collaboration will see the airline launch its first ever co-branded credit card, complete with a number of juicy perks for travelers looking to take advantage of Japan’s tourism reopening, including discounts of 15%-20% on Tigerair flights from Taiwan.

Reinvigorating tourism ties

A rousing taiko drumming performance set the stage for the press event in Taipei, where several prominent figures from Rakuten, Tigerair and the industry gathered to express their optimism for the recovery of Taiwan’s and Japan’s tourism industry.

Chief Representative of the Japan-Taiwan Exchange Association Hiroyasu Izumi stressed the significance of such a collaboration during these uncertain times.

“The tourism industry and other businesses that rely on travel between Japan and Taiwan are facing tough times due to the pandemic,” he told reporters. “That’s why I think this new offering — a product of collaboration between Taiwan Rakuten Card with its focus on Japan-loving Taiwanese customers; Tigerair Taiwan with its many Japan routes; and VISA — will be so significant for reinvigorating travel and the tourism industry.”

In June 2022, Japan began accepting tourists for the first time in over two years. Taiwanese travelers are eager to finally take their long-postponed Japan trips, but Izumi says they aren’t the only ones excited about the reopening.

“Various surveys have named Japan as the destination Taiwanese travelers want to visit most once travel is possible again, so it’s clear that the pandemic hasn’t affected Japan’s popularity,” he remarked. “At the same time, Japanese governments and people in retail, leisure and hospitality are also expressing a strong desire to see Taiwanese tourists return.”

A pillar of Rakuten’s Taiwan ecosystem

Taiwan Rakuten Card President & CEO Eiji Ishii hopes that the new collaboration will help boost tourism-related business both in Japan and Taiwan.

“As the borders reopen for tourism, I hope we can work with our important partners at Tigerair Taiwan to offer our customers a fantastic card, and contribute to both Taiwan’s and Japan’s tourism industries.”

Cardholders will be able to take advantage of 15%-20% discounts on Tigerair fares between Taiwan and Japan, in addition to discounts and coupons at nearly 10,000 participating stores in Japan and a further 1,000 Japanese brands and stores in Taiwan.

“It has been 15 years since the Rakuten Group started operations in Taiwan, and I take great pride in the fact that Taiwan Rakuten Card has become such an important pillar of the Rakuten Ecosystem.”

It’s back to business for the travel industry

Overseeing Taiwan’s largest low-cost carrier, Tigerair Taiwan chairman Kevin Chen has unique insight into the future of Taiwan’s travel industry.

“Despite the pandemic, we have worked to improve our business wherever we can,” Chen told reporters, outlining the airline’s recent customer outreach efforts, including a popular collaboration that saw a Tigerair jet decorated in the colors of Taiwanese pro-baseball team the Rakuten Monkeys .

“By launching this co-branded card together with Taiwan Rakuten Card, I believe we are sending a message to the world that the travel industry is ready to get back to business,” he proclaimed. “We’re looking forward to welcoming everyone for their first trip coming out of the pandemic.”

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Rakuten Insight

August 2023

June 12 to 30, 2023

12,578 respondents

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Foreign net outflows to recover in 2H24

Wednesday, 10 Apr 2024

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Taking the big leap to the ace market, emerging markets - taiwan stocks lift emerging markets to 14-month high.

Rakuten Trade's Lau said the outflows could have been due to some portfolio realignments.

PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s year-to-date net foreign outflow, which has grown to RM1.21bil, is not something to be worried about, say analysts.

The net selling trend by foreign investors on Bursa Malaysia has now stretched into its sixth consecutive week at RM336mil for the week ended April 5.

However, Rakuten Trade head of equity sales Vincent Lau said the situation is likely to recover in the second half of this year, which is only three months away.

According to Lau, foreign portfolios have been on the slower side due to the US market remaining fairly robust, which has resulted in a possible delay of rate cuts by the Federal Reserve (Fed).

“We are still expecting a rate cut but given the data, it seems less likely that it might take place in June, as expected.

“Once that happens, we can expect to see more inflows coming in because it will make the emerging markets like ours more attractive to investors,” he told StarBiz.

The last time such an outflow streak was recorded was in the middle of 2023, when foreign investors sold for 12 weeks straight.

Lau added the outflows could also have been due to some portfolio realignments.

“Right now, it’s more of a wait-and-see approach. For the next few months, I do not expect to see any major outflows but we’d be looking at about the same levels for now,” he said.

From an economic standpoint, Lau said the first quarter of this year has been relatively good.

“The FBM KLCI did well as it ended the last trading day of the quarter on a strong note at 1,536.07 points,” he said.

Meanwhile, MIDF Research analyst Royce Tan said he expects to see net outflows for the time being but remains sanguine that foreign funds will return to the market, with the expectations of a strengthened ringgit being among the catalysts.

He said other than an expected delay in the Fed’s rate cut, a rotation of funds among foreign investors within Asian countries to other sectors like technology and chips had seen countries like South Korea and Taiwan recording strong net inflows.

“Malaysian equities have been quite robust for the first quarter as all the sectoral indices have advanced, so we believe profit taking could be among the factors that have led to the net outflows in Malaysia we have seen in recent weeks,” he noted.

Moreover, Tan said there were some bright spots in terms of sectors and their potential.

He noted for the first quarter of 2024, the sectors of interest among foreign investors were utilities (RM801.1mil), property (RM685.8mil) and construction (RM276.7mil).

He said these were among the three main sectors that they promoted in their 2024 market outlook.

“We believe the prospect of an upside still exists within the construction and property sectors, the former due to the strong development expenditure by the government and the latter due to the improving outlook amid the downtrend in overhang.

“While we have downgraded the power sector to ‘neutral’, we continue to favour the engineering, procurement, construction and commissioning sub-sector, which will be a beneficiary of the National Energy Transition Roadmap, backed by the massive potential of order book expansion,” Tan said.

The report had also noted the sectors with the highest outflows included financial services at RM417mil, industrial products and services at RM46mil and consumer products and services at RM29.9mil.

There was net selling last Monday, Wednesday and Friday at RM99.4mil, RM253.4mil and RM132.7mil, respectively.

Last Tuesday and Thursday, there were net buys of RM134.3mil and RM15.2mil, respectively.

“In contrast, local institutions persisted in their net buying trend for the sixth consecutive week, with a net purchase of RM557.4mil.

“They only net sold RM81.3mil on Tuesday but were net buyers for the rest of the week, amounting to RM638.7mil,” the report said.

Tags / Keywords: MalaysiaStocks , ForeignOutflow , BursaMalaysia , FBMKLCI , RateCutDelay , EmergingMarkets , ProfitTaking , RinggitStrength

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China labels US comments on Taiwan and AUKUS 'dangerous'

By Bernard Orr

BEIJING (Reuters) -China's government on Wednesday labelled as "dangerous" comments by a senior U.S. diplomat that the AUKUS submarine project between Australia, Britain and the United States could help deter any Chinese move against Taiwan.

The project, finalised by the three countries last year, involves Australia acquiring nuclear-powered attack submarines as part of the allies' efforts to push back against China's growing power in the Indo-Pacific region.

Speaking last week, the U.S. State Department's No. 2 diplomat, Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, said the new submarine capabilities would enhance peace and stability, including in the strait that separates China and Taiwan.

China claims democratically governed Taiwan as its own territory, despite the objections of the government in Taipei, and is regularly angered by what it views as foreign inference in a domestic issue.

"His remarks are very dangerous," Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, told reporters in Beijing when asked about what Campbell had said.

"The establishment of the so-called trilateral security partnership between the United States, Britain and Australia is essentially to provoke military confrontation in the region through military cooperation in small circles," she added.

Any attempt to use military cooperation to "intervene in the Taiwan issue is to interfere in China's internal affairs" and is a threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait region, Zhu said.

The U.S., Britain and Australia formed AUKUS in 2021, part of their efforts to push back against China's growing power in the Indo-Pacific region. China has called the AUKUS pact dangerous and warned it could spur a regional arms race.

None of the AUKUS countries have formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan.

While the U.S. has long been Taiwan's most important international backer and arms supplier, both Britain and Australia have stepped up support for the island and expressed concern at Chinese military pressure against it.

Speaking to Reuters while on a trip to Taipei as part of an Australian lawmaker delegation, Dave Sharma, a senator from the opposition Liberal Party, said AUKUS has "certainly been of interest to our Taiwanese counterparts".

Both AUKUS and the Quad - the group of the U.S., Australia, India and Japan - exert a stabilising presence in the region allowing cooperation, information sharing and joint exercises, Sharma said, following meetings with Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen as well as defence and security officials.

"I think Taiwanese counterparts see this as reassuring because it sends a message to Beijing that these countries have a joint interest in maintenance of security across the Taiwan Strait," he added.

(Reporting by Bernard Orr; Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by Stephen Coates and Lincoln Feast.)

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