Assisting overseas Taiwanese businesses to invest in Taiwan is an important policy of the government, Premier Mao Chi-kuo stated today during the reception at the Executive Yuan for the 21st-term delegates of the World Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (WTCC).
Three years ago the Executive Yuan started to promote a program for overseas Taiwanese to invest in Taiwan and also set up the InvesTaiwan Service Center to provide one-stop comprehensive services.
As of the end of 2014, more than NT$240 billion (US$7.71 billion) had been invested in Taiwan by 65 overseas Taiwanese businesses, creating more than 39,000 jobs. "Now is the best time to invest in Taiwan," reiterated Mao, who hopes Taiwanese businesses will seize this investment opportunity and inject overseas capital into the island.
The WTCC is one of the most important organizations overseas among Taiwan compatriots, the premier pointed out. Having established branches in various parts of world, the WTCC has not only helped members connect with each other and develop businesses, but also served as a bridge between Taiwanese businesses and the governments under which they operate.
The WTCC has always been very concerned about Taiwan, and has made immediate and direct contributions. In foreign relations, for example, it has lobbied the U.S. government to support the ROC's entry into related international organizations. The agenda for its upcoming visit to six Southeast Asian nations includes lobbying the governments to expedite the signing of free trade agreements with Taiwan as well as urging them to support the ROC's entry into the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. The premier acknowledged and commended these efforts.
In addition, the WTCC donated about NT$40 million (US$1.29 million) after the 2014 Kaohsiung gas explosion, the premier pointed out. The government used this money to buy fire rescue equipment such as fire-fighting and fume exhauster trucks as well as infrared sensors. All such efforts fully testify that besides advancing their overseas businesses, WTCC members are very concerned about happenings in Taiwan and have instantly provided all types of assistance and relief, which is highly commendable.
Finally, the premier expressed gratitude to all overseas Taiwanese businesspeople for their contribution to Taiwan. They are a major bridge for Taiwan to reach out to the world, as their familiarity with overseas markets and important connections are conducive to the nation's trade and diplomatic advancement. The premier hopes Taiwanese businesspeople will continue to support the government in promoting various policies so that the nation can become even more prosperous and advanced.