Taiwanology
Taiwanology is a podcast from Taiwan’s CommonWealth Magazine that explores the country’s geopolitics, technology, and culture. Each episode explains why developments in Taiwan matter to the wider world. The show connects local perspectives with global implications, covering the forces shaping Taiwan and its international role.
单集
How France and Taiwan Became Interdependent, From Industrial Gases to Chip Design【Taiwanology Ep.65】
Frédéric Laplanche first came to Taiwan in 1995 as a graduate student. This year, he returned as the new director of the French Office in Taipei. In this interview, he emphasized the importance of building strong partnerships. Taiwan's chipmakers depend on French industrial gases, ultrapure water and silicon substrates, while Foxconn and ProLogium invest in France. What does a trusted partnership
Broken Chain: 1.8B Data Points Track China's Coast Guard in 1st Island Chain【Taiwanology Ep.64】
Why has China Coast Guard made it a routine to patrol the east of Taiwan? Why has retired US Air Force colonel Ray Powell called this a quarantine? CommonWealth's cover story details the reporting behind "Broken Chain," built on 1.8 billion vessel data points. Our reporters recount our exclusive interview with National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu. This episode traces a shared play
Why Semicon Taiwan Becomes a Beauty Pageant of Global Suppliers【Taiwanology Ep. 63】
Taiwan's biggest semiconductor trade show just got more international. This year, Semicon Taiwan marks its 30th anniversary with a record 18 national pavilions, from the US to Mexico and Finland. Veteran tech journalist Judy Lin explains why so many countries now want proximity to Taiwan's chip ecosystem. Plus: whether AI chip demand is real or a bubble.Episode highlights:00:30 Why watch Taipei fo
Europe's Widening Case for Taiwan, From Chips to Information War【Taiwanology Ep. 62】
TSMC in Dresden. Foxconn in Bordeaux. A German chemicals giant in Kaohsiung. EU-Taiwan industrial ties are deepening fast, and it's mutual: EU states have invested more in Taiwan than the US and Japan combined. EETO head Lutz Güllner explains what Chips Act 2.0 changes, where Taiwan fits into Europe's industrial strategy beyond chips, and how Taiwan's civil society is countering foreign informatio
Canada's Envoy on Taiwan: When the World Fractures, Middle Powers Lean In【Taiwanology Ep. 61】
Canada's top trade envoy in Taipei, Marie-Louise Hannan, reflects on four decades of Canada-Taiwan ties, growing LNG and offshore wind cooperation, and why Prime Minister Mark Carney's case for middle-power democracies resonates with Taiwan's own search for agency in a fractured world.Episode highlights:00:00 Launching a new diplomat interview series02:44 Arriving in China in 1989, before the Ti
Are We in an AI Bubble? AMD’s Lisa Su speaks out in Taiwan 【Taiwanology Ep.60】
Is the AI boom a bubble? AMD Chair and CEO Lisa Su joins Commonwealth Magazine to share why the AI revolution is just getting started, and why Taiwan remains the center of this universe. Find out why she believes open ecosystems and "AI everywhere" are reshaping our future. Episode highlights:01:45 What's behind AMD's $10B investment in Taiwan and 2nm partnership with TSMC? 06:12 Why is Taiwan t
Is Taiwan’s bike industry losing its luster? 【Taiwanology Ep.59】
For decades, Taiwan has been known as the “Bicycle Kingdom.” But it is now under mounting pressure. From the rapid rise of China’s e-bike giants to a growing push in Europe to reshore manufacturing, Taiwan’s bike industry is entering a period of change. How can it navigate this new landscape?Episode highlights:04:20 How Taiwan became the “Bicycle Kingdom”07:20 Why China is not the only challenge f
Why Audrey Tang Has No Fear for AI Agents and the OpenClaw【Taiwanology Ep.58】
Is artificial intelligence a threat to human agency, or an opportunity for civic innovation? 2025 Right Livelihood Laureate and Taiwan Cyber Ambassador Audrey Tang discusses the shift from algorithms to symbiotic "local Kami" AI. Find out why she has no fear for AI agents and OpenClaw. It’s a masterclass in staying human in a world of synthetic intimacy, with one life hack that will help you sleep
Watching the Dragon: How Taiwan Decodes China’s Internal Fragility 【Taiwanology Ep.57】
As China becomes increasingly opaque, how can Taiwan maintain a clear-eyed perspective? We are joined by Professor Tao to dissect the China Monitoring Report by Thinking Taiwan Foundation. They move past the headlines to analyze 50 indicators across economy, finance, and society, revealing a dual-speed reality and rising systemic social unrest. [03:00] Thinking Taiwan 2.0: Former President Tsai In
U.S. Skepticism in Taiwan: From Shared Values to Protection Fees【Taiwanology Ep.56】
Is Taiwan’s biggest ally still reliable? For years, the U.S. and Taiwan were "best friends" because of democracy. But now, the conversation has changed to "protection fees" and business deals. This shift is creating a wave of U.S. skepticism across the island. We look at why people in Taiwan feel anxious and what happens to Taiwan’s security when friendship becomes a transaction. [00:34] Why Taiwa
Will Europe Choose Taiwan as Trust in China Fades? 【Taiwanology Ep.55】
There is historic shift in Europe-Taiwan ties. From Ukraine war to the "Trump factor," we examine why Brussels is looking past old constraints of its One China policy. A new paper asks if Taiwan can turn symbolic support into economic substance Europe now needs for resilience. 01:50 - The explosion in Taiwan-EU interactions 04:00 - How global instability sobered up EU policy toward Taiwan 17:20 -
Taiwan’s Growing Climate Voice at Brazil’s COP30【Taiwanology Ep.54】
COP30 wrapped in Belém after two weeks, and the final deal landed with a weak punch. No fossil-fuel phaseout, no major breakthrough. So what does this outcome mean? And with Taiwan hosting an unprecedented pavilion in the Green Zone, what role is Taiwan carving out in global climate politics? In this episode, I speak with climate scientist Rachel Cleetus and NGO worker Jack Huang to break it down.
Forced Labor? What Taiwan’s Exporters Must Do Next【Taiwanology Ep.53】
In September, U.S. Customs hit Taiwan's Giant with a Withhold Release Order—the first ever against a Taiwanese company—blocking its bikes from entering the U.S. over alleged forced labor. The move puts over US$1 billion in exports at risk and exposes gaps between Taiwan’s labor laws and global standards. What must Taiwan do to rebuild trust in its supply chains? 3:30 – Why is the broker system a
【Taiwanology Ep.52】Seeking Peace in Taiwan: An Israeli and a Palestinian in Dialogue
As the world marks two years since the October 7 conflict, peace feels more distant than ever. Israeli peace educator Roi Silberberg and Palestinian scholar Hazem Almassry share deeply personal stories—from childhood in Gaza to life in a shared Jewish-Arab village. They reflect on Gaza’s devastation, Israel’s militarized “normal,” and Taiwan’s own security, arguing that peace begins not with agree
【Taiwanology Ep.51】Why is Nuclear Power Back on Taiwan’s Agenda?
Taiwan is at an energy crossroads. After decades of debate, a recent referendum revealed that over 70% favor restarting its last nuclear power plant. What does this shift mean for Taiwan’s energy security? We sit down with Danny Chang, former chairman of Star Buck Power Corp, to unpack Taiwan’s nuclear dilemma and why the island is rethinking its position on nuclear power. 0:00 – How Taiwan’s lat
【Taiwanology Ep.50】What Taiwan’s Largest Drills Reveal About Its Defense Strategy
Taiwan’s largest military exercise, the Han Kuang drills, now includes a supermarket chain helping with evacuation plans. With China’s military pressure near-constant, Taiwan is expanding its defense strategy to include asymmetric warfare, civil defense, and psychological readiness. Silva Shih, CommonWealth Magazine's defense reporter, joins us to explain how Taiwan is preparing—and what could sti
【Taiwanology Ep.49】How Taiwan's Mass Recall Movement Is Reshaping Politics
In 2025, Taiwan is witnessing an unprecedented wave of citizen-led recall campaigns targeting lawmakers—mostly from the opposition Kuomintang. Branded the “mass recall” movement, it raises a question: is this a genuine expression of civic outrage, or a politically driven power play? To unpack the roots and implications of this political upheaval, we speak with Nathan Batto, political scientist and
【Taiwanology Ep.48】Molecules of Resilience: Can Taiwan Power a Hydrogen Economy?
As global powers pour billions into the hydrogen economy, Taiwan is just getting started. In this episode, we ask: Is Taiwan ready for the hydrogen economy? Could hydrogen be Taiwan’s next move for energy security and net-zero goals? We explore what it will take for Taiwan to catch up, from industrial policy to infrastructure. - 03:30 From flour to fuel: How Linde LienHwa evolved into a hydrogen
【Taiwanology Ep.47】Can America Reindustrialize? Lessons from Taiwan’s Manufacturing Playbook
With Trump's return, the push for tariffs, reshoring, and a "great manufacturing renaissance" is gaining momentum. But what does reindustrialization actually look like—and where does Taiwan fit into this vision? Our guest, Jack Hou, COO of Universal Cement, shares insights from both sides of the Pacific, including how he helped turn around his family business and what it would take to rebuild manu
【Taiwanology Ep.46】TSMC, AI, and the Chip War: Can Taiwan Stay Indispensable?
What does it mean when the world’s most advanced chipmaker—Taiwan’s TSMC—pledges $100 billion to make advanced chips in the US? It’s more than just a business move. In this episode, we explore the geopolitical stakes, national security concerns, and the race for tech dominance between the U.S. and its rivals. Our guest, Jeremy Chang, CEO of Taiwan’s think tank DSET, joins us to unpack how this his
【Taiwanology Ep.45】TSMC, Intel, and Trump’s Chip Gambit
Donald Trump’s return to the White House is shaking up the global semiconductor industry. Rumors are swirling that he wants TSMC to bail out Intel, raising big questions about Taiwan’s role in the U.S.-China tech war. Could TSMC realistically “save” its American rival? And what does this mean for Taiwan’s long-term competitiveness and the so-called Silicon Shield? We break it all down with Rocky U
【Taiwanology Ep.44】RightsCon Comes to Taiwan: Human Rights Battle in The Digital Age
In late February, RightsCon, often nicknamed the Burning Man of human rights activism, takes place in Taiwan for the first time. This four-day event is expected to bring together thousands of activists, policymakers, and tech leaders to tackle pressing issues at the intersection of human rights and the digital age. What can we expect and why Taipei was picked to be the host city? - How Access Now
【Taiwanology Ep.43】From Failure to Unicorn: How Appier Became Taiwan’s AI Pioneer
Taiwan is renowned for its world-class semiconductor manufacturing, but it’s not often recognized as a hub for software startups. So why did Appier, an AI-driven marketing tech company, choose Taiwan as its base—and how did it become the island’s first AI software unicorn? In this episode, co-founder Chih-han Yu shares the lessons learned from eight (!) failures. - What is Appier, and who are its
【Taiwanology Ep.42】Trump 2.0: What It Means for Taiwan and the U.S.-China Power Play
As President-elect Trump returns to the White House, the stakes for U.S.-Taiwan relations are at an all-time high. Wenchi Yu, a renowned global affairs advisor and expert in cross-border strategy, offers her perspective on navigating the intricate dynamics among the U.S., Taiwan, and China during these volatile times. What can we expect from Donald Trump’s second term? - The mood in Washington, D
【Taiwanology Ep.41】Decathlon, Friendship, and Legacy: Rafer Johnson and CK Yang
Did you know Taiwan’s first Olympic medal was a silver in the decathlon at the 1960 Rome Olympics? CK Yang finished just behind his close friend Rafer Johnson of the US. Their story is one of fierce competition and lifelong camaraderie, now told in the new documentary Decathlon: The CK Yang & Rafer Johnson Story. In this episode, we dive into this incredible tale with journalist Mike Chinoy an
【Taiwanology Ep.40】Gunter Pauli on How Entrepreneurship Can Save the Planet
In this Episode: We sit down with Gunter Pauli, a visionary entrepreneur, author, and the driving force behind the "Zero Emissions" and "Blue Economy" movements. Known as "the Steve Jobs of Sustainability" and "the Che Guevara of Sustainability," Gunter discusses groundbreaking ideas and the future of sustainable innovation. From pioneering the first zero-emissions factory to shaping global supply
【Taiwanology Ep.39】Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: A Conversation with Wingee Sin
In this episode, we dive into female entrepreneurship and why it deserves greater attention. How can communities create an environment that enables and empowers women to thrive as business leaders? Our guest, Wingee Sin, Global Program Director of the Cartier Women’s Initiative, shares her inspiring journey. From starting her career in investment banking to transitioning into a global role suppor
【Taiwanology Ep.38】What a Trump Comeback Means for Taiwan
President Donald Trump is making a political comeback. What has driven him to victory? And what could this mean for US-Taiwan and US-China relations? To break it all down, we’re joined by Silva Shih, CommonWealth’s sharp-eyed China and defense correspondent. Reporting directly from two key battlegrounds—Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and Miami, Florida—Silva brings us the pulse of the American voter. She
【Taiwanology Ep.37】Assessing the "Made in China 2025" Ambition: Do Sanctions Work?
Where can you experience pilotless aircraft, autonomous cars, and service robots all in one place? Surprisingly, it's not the US or Germany, but China. Today, we sit down with Yixuan Lin to dive into China's remarkable technological strides, even amid international sanctions and mounting global pressures. What does this mean for the rest of the world, and what challenges lie ahead for China's ambi
【Taiwanology Ep.36】Can Virginia's Data Center Hub Keep Growing?
Virginia is home to a third of the world’s data centers, serving as a critical backbone of the internet — and a battleground over power and land. CommonWealth's Senior Writer Elaine Huang visited Ashburn’s famed Data Center Alley, where she saw firsthand the mounting tension as locals brace for a showdown over electricity and space. Could Taiwan be next to face these challenges? 09:03 - Who is th
【Taiwanology Ep.35】Google's Plan for Upskilling Taiwan's Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is emerging as a crucial topic. For Taiwan, the island nation finds itself in a unique position, both as a global tech leader and a target in the changing geopolitical landscape. According to a 2021 estimation, Taiwan undergoes 20 to 40 million cyberattacks a month. What can Taiwan do to strengthen its cybersecurity awareness and skills? We hear from Heather Adkins, Google VP of Secu
【Taiwanology Ep.34】How Garmin Dominates the GPS World and More
98% of marathon runners use Garmin devices to track their progress. Either you drive a Ford, Toyota or BMW, chances are your car uses Garmin's GPS system. Garmin's wearable devices are also loved by pilots, divers and triathletes. How did this company co-founded by a Taiwanese engineer come to dominate the business of navigation? 05:10 - What was Garmin's founding story? 09:15 - How did Garmin f
【Taiwanology Ep.33】What would Trump 2.0 mean for Taiwan's Economy?
Taiwan's trade performance has been at its strongest. The share of Taiwan’s exports going to the U.S. has steadily risen from 12% in 2016 to 22.3% in the first quarter of this year. For the first time in 20 years, The US became Taiwan’s largest export market. However, if forTrump comes back in November, Taiwan will face a US president who sees trade deficits as the enemy. He has been gloating idea
【Taiwanology Ep.32】When a German Came to Taiwan to Master Chipmaking
Why would dozens of German students stay in Taiwan for half a year to learn about the chip industry? Because Taiwan is where over 90% of advanced semiconductor chips are made. In this episode, we dive into the future of European semiconductor manufacturing as it gains momentum, just as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company's first European fab breaks ground in Saxony, Germany Aug 20. Joinin
【Taiwanology Ep.31】Germany's Battery Quest: Can Taiwan Follow?
From Tesla, VW to BYD, it seems all automakers want more of electric vehicles. But, how are they going to be powered? Today we're diving into the electrifying world of electric vehicles. With 80% of lithium batteries currently made in China, the West is seeking alternatives to diversify away. In May, CommonWealth's Kwangyin Liu visited AMG Lithium in Germany, Europe's first battery-grade lithium r
【Taiwanology Ep.30】Meet the Man Building Taiwan's Digital Resilience
As the CrowdStrike glitch caused a global IT meltdown, cyber infrastructure security has emerged as a critical issue. This raises a question about Taiwan's defense capabilities: Is Taiwan's digital infrastructure robust enough to withstand hostile breaches or hacking attempts? We speak with Taiwan's Digital Minister, Yen-nun Huang, the man at the forefront of bolstering Taiwan's digital resilience
【Taiwanology Ep.29】Who's keeping Hong Kong bustling?
27 years ago, the world witnessed Hong Kong’s handover from the UK to China. The city is now under a different kind of spotlight. The introduction of the National Security Law in 2020 and the passing of Article 23 sparked controversies. While lots of western money and expats have left, Russian and Middle Eastern wealth seems to be taking their place. 09:30 - Why is money flowing back to Hong Kong
【Taiwanology Ep.28】Why U.S. Companies are Still Betting Big on Taiwan
American investment plays a vital role in Taiwan's economy. The US ranks as Taiwan's second-largest source of foreign direct investment, and is also its second-largest trading partner. Beyond these impressive figures, the U.S. stands as Taiwan’s most significant strategic ally. Following the latest edition of AmCham's annual White Paper, we talked to AmCham Chairperson Dan Silver on why U.S. busin
【Taiwanology Ep.27】Why Taiwan provides most of the world's industrial computers
When you hear “industrial computers,” you might think of robotic arms on assembly lines or power plants. But the new generation of industrial computing comes in all shapes and sizes, from conveyor belt sushi restaurants to cashier systems in cafes and supermarkets. Our guest today calls it “AIoT”—Artificial Intelligence of Things combined with Edge Computing—powering devices from Las Vegas slot ma
【Taiwanology Ep.26】On being environmental journalists in Taiwan feat. TaiwanPlus
In this special episode, we delve into the challenges faced by environmental journalists in Taiwan. Dr. Aziz Mulla, himself an expert in preserving Taiwan's coral reefs, had an in-depth interview with Kwangyin and Sally Jensen, an environmental reporter for the TV station TaiwanPlus. This episode was recorded in January and was first aired February 8, 2024. 16:20 - How to make environment journa
【Taiwanology Ep.25】How can Taiwan build more renewable energy?
As global buyers like Apple and Nike ramp up pressure on their supply chain to decarbonize, everyone in Taiwan seems to want more renewable energy: from chip makers like TSMC to smaller manufacturers of nuts and bolts. But the pace has been slower than expected. In 2023, renewables accounted for a mere 10% of Taiwan's electricity consumption, and will surely fall short of its target of 20% by 2025
【Taiwanology Ep.24】How worried should we be about China's exporting deflation?
Pundits and policymakers in the US and Europe are increasingly worried that, as China's economy slows down, China’s excess manufacturing capacity might overflow the world with cheap imports, ranging from steel, solar panels, to electric cars. Moreover, what's looming on the horizon are legacy semiconductors. How worried should we be? What can be done to mitigate the impact of Chinese overcapacity?
【Taiwanology Ep.23】What’s behind Taiwan’s ETF craze?
An ETF allows an investor to invest in a basket of different investments. For some reason, high dividend ETF products have been all the rage in Taiwan in recent years. According to J.P. Morgan Asset Management, Taiwan's ETF asset size saw the highest in the world, growing 23-fold over the past five years. Why are Taiwanese investors so obsessed with high dividend ETFs? What does it tell us about T
【Taiwanology Ep.22】How Taiwan can grow its population
With an aging population and the world's lowest birth rate, Taiwan is grappling with a demographic imbalance that threatens its economic vitality. Join us as we explore why revamping immigration regulations to attract international talent is crucial now. To delve deep into this issue, we talk with David Chang, who has been championing more inclusion for international citizens in Taiwan. Find out w
【Taiwanology Ep.21】Japan's Chip Revival: TSMC's Touch
On February 24th, Japan Advanced Semiconductor Manufacturing (JASM) inaugurated its state-of-the-art facility in Kumamoto, marking a pivotal moment in Japan's semiconductor landscape. This milestone is underscored by several remarkable achievements: JASM secured the highest subsidies ever granted by the Japanese government, completed construction in a record-breaking timeframe of under two years,
【Taiwanology Ep.20】What Shein tells us about China's sinking market
In the US, Shein was the most downloaded fashion app in 2022. Influencers showcase "Shein hauls" featuring bags of clothing at unbelievably low prices, like 3-dollar tops or 5-dollar jeans. How can Shein be so cheap? And at what cost? A group of CommonWealth reporters travelled to the shouthern Chinese city of Guanzhou, where thousands of small workshops churn out new styles quickly each week. Wha
【Taiwanology Ep.19】Taiwan's migrant workers have a dream
In this episode, we unravel the intricacies of Taiwan's economy, spotlighting the indispensable role played by migrant workers—1 in 6 factory workers in Taiwan falls into this category. As the impending EU human rights due diligence legislation looms, we turn our attention to Taiwan's distinctive practice of allowing monthly fees on migrant workers by brokers. In a shifting landscape where legal c
【Taiwanology Ep.18】After that: a conversation with Hong Kongers in Taiwan
Amidst the turbulence of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong over the past few years, a profound exodus has unfolded, with over 200,000 Hong Kong residents seeking refuge elsewhere. Among them, approximately 20,000 have found solace in Taiwan, embracing it as their sanctuary. Leaving behind a familiar life is undoubtedly challenging, but forging a new path in a foreign land presents its own set of
【Taiwanology Ep.17】What's at stake in Taiwan's upcoming election?
In two weeks, Taiwan is headed to the polls. The challenges are manifold: from escalating geopolitical tensions and the deepening rivalry between the United States and China, to limited upward social mobility. What truly hangs in the balance, and what far-reaching implications might the impending results hold? Wen-ti Sung, an Atlantic Council fellow and a Australian National University lecturer, j
【Taiwanology Ep.16】Taiwan's white-collar fraud problem
Scamming has transcended boundaries and borders. In today's episode, we talk with a finance reporter about a growing trend in Taiwan: bankers and engineers are starting to play key roles in sophiscated scams, and they don't even feel like criminals. 05:09 - How much money does Taiwan loss to scamming each year? 07:08 - When a bank teller becomes a fraud group accomplice 11:18 - What makes Taiwan'
【Taiwanology Ep.15】Taiwan's role in combating climate emergency (with Switch)
Welcome to a special episode of Taiwanology! In the midst of the UN climate conference, COP28, unfolding in Dubai, our host takes center stage as a dedicated climate reporter. Join us as we explore the intricate world of climate reporting, unravel the challenges of greenwashing, and dissect the elements that define exceptional climate journalism. In this episode, Kwangyin sheds light on Taiwan's
【Taiwanology Ep.14】TSMC's Arizona challenges
In this episode, we chat with Elaine Huang from CommonWealth about TSMC's ambitious chip manufacturing hub in Phoenix, Arizona. We explore the project's challenges, from construction delays to labor disputes, and address concerns such as potential water shortages raised by a local alfalfa farmer. Our conversation also touches on TSMC's strategies moving forward amidst the labor controversy. Can pl
【Taiwanology Ep.13】VinFast & Selex Motors: Vietnam's electric dreams
There's been a shift in the restructuring of the global supply chain, in the wake of a trend to derisk from China for manufactured goods. Vietnam is at the heart of this transformation, becoming a busy hub where companies across the globe flock to. Meanwhile, Vietnam has its own ambitions of making electric cars and scooters. Silva Shih had an exclusive inside look at VinFast's EV assembly line an
【Taiwanology Ep.12】Walter Isaacson on Elon Musk
Whether you love him or hate him, Elon Musk is impossible to ignore. Walter Isaacson should show, because he had spent two years on his side. In this special episode, my colleagues Charo and Yishan talked to Isaacson, the author of the most comprehensive biography on Elon Musk so far. In September, CommonWealth Magazine published the traditional Chinese version of the biography in Taiwan. In the
【Taiwanology Ep.11】From chips to Nike kicks: Taiwan's footwear champions
Taiwan doesn’t just make semicondictor chips, it also puts together the Nikes, New Balances, Adidas shoes on your feet. Over 70% of Nikes and 90% of New Balance shoes are made by Taiwan companies. Ever sported gear from Puma, New Balance, Mizuno, or On Running? There's a high chance they came from Diamond Group's factories. Each year, they roll out a whopping 35 million pairs of sports shoes. Hea
【Taiwanology Ep.10】Inside Taiwan’s presidential race with Kharis Templeman
As we focus on the upcoming Taiwan presidential election in January 2024, the scene is surely getting crowded. Besides DPP's Lai Ching-te, KMT's Hou You-yi and Ko Wen-je representing the Taiwan People’s Party, Terry Gou, the founder of Foxconn, also joined the race. With geopolitical tensions rising, some are calling this election the most pivotal one for Taiwan's destiny. What’s really at stake?
【Taiwanology Ep.9】Taiwan mochi conquers the world
The flavors of Taiwan, including mini puffs, bubble tea and dry noodles, are gaining popularity in the US and Europe. In this delicious episode, we talk to the mochi master, Alvin Huang from Royal Family Foods, which is selling 1.5 million mochis a day. Why is this dessert captivating Gen Z in over 50 countries? Why is mochi Taiwanese and international at the same time? 15:45 - Who are the Americ
【Taiwanology Ep.8】Can Taiwan be the bridge between China and the US?
While the Taiwan issue is often seen through a lens of cross-strait conflicts, how does it impact Taiwan’s economy and interactions with the world? Are there alternative and more nuanced ways for us to talk about Taiwan? In this episode we talk with George Yin, a research associate at Fairbank Center at Harvard. Amidst growing geopolitical tension, he argues that the importance of diplomacy cannot
【Taiwanology Ep.7】What comes after Taiwan’s #MeToo moment?
#MeToo has taken Taiwan by storm, following a young woman's bombshell sexual harassment allegation in May. Over 100 victims, both men and women, have come forward to accuse prominent figures in politics, the arts, and academia. Inspired by a popular drama series "Wave Makers", the movement has prompted self-reflect and even a law revamp, but will real changes happen? 01:20 - Filmmaker Lynn tellin
【Taiwanology Ep.6】Big tech vs. big gov：How Taiwan uses AI for good
Ever since the introduction of OpenAI's ChatGPT, many have marveled at its potential to assist human work while others are concerned about potential abuse or being replaced by it. In this episode, Kwangyin talked with Ethan Tu, founder of Taiwan AI Labs, who was once head of a Microsoft team that created the AI assistant Cortana, which later became the team that created ChatGPT. 08:40 - Is artifi
【Taiwanology Ep.5】How Taiwan deals with a water shortage
With a yearly rainfall 2.6 times the global average, it's hard to imagine that water scarcity would be an issue for Taiwan. Over the past five years, Taiwan has no major typhoons, which has led to unprecedented droughts. How can Taiwan ensure a sustainable water supply not only for chipmakers like TSMC but also for the farmers, and its people? 04:52 - Why Taiwan is facing water shortages? 10:15 -
【Taiwanology Ep.4】What can Taiwan do to avoid a US-China conflict？
The relationship between China and the U.S. is not only at its lowest point in decades, but appears to be trapped in a downward spiral. With Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterating his resolve to reunify Taiwan, many articles and podcasts portrayed Taiwan as a potential flashpoint between US and China, as if Taiwan has no agency, and there is nothing Taiwan could do. Is that true? 7:05 - How Ta
【Taiwanology Ep.3】TSMC founder talks chips with Chris Miller
At the CommonWealth semiconductor forum March 16, the 91-year-old TSMC founder Morris Chang reiterated the importance of Taiwan as a major force in semiconductor manufacturing, and stressed that the growing trend of diversification of chip making would result in higher costs. Chris Miller, Associate Professor of International History at Tufts University, gave a brief speech on how TSMC became the
【Taiwanology Ep.2】Who makes India’s iPhones?
For the second episode of the Taiwanology podcast, we hopped on a plane and took a trip to India. The 3 Commonwealth reporters Elaine Huang, Andy Yang and Peiying Hsieh visited India to get insights into the Indian Electronic Manufacturing Industry, and especially the working conditions of Foxconn in India. Recently, India is becoming increasingly important for international electronic manufactur
【Taiwanology Ep.1】What’s Taiwan’s role in the chip war?
For the debut episode of the Taiwanology podcast, we delved into Taiwan’s role in the global chip supply chain. And, most importantly, its role in the chip war. Our guest is Miin Wu, founder of Macronix International, who has over 50 years of experience in the semiconductor industry. If you own a Nintendo Switch or a Canon camera, your device has chips made by Macronix. Taiwan’s semiconductor ind
