With its modern and convenient cities, free and open political environment, and vibrant and inclusive society, the Republic of China (Taiwan) has become famous as a premier business, cultural and tourist destination.
One of the key factors in this success story is the goodwill that Taiwan has garnered overseas. Through the promotion of its democratic ideals, dynamic business environment, and acclaimed health care and education systems, Taiwan has built a significant amount of soft power around the world.
Global recognition
In recent years, international studies have attested to the quality of services available in Taiwan. The Nation ranks 11th in higher education and training, as measured by the ‘Global Competitiveness Report 2013-2014’ of the World Economic Forum.
Thanks to the country’s renowned health care system, Taiwanese enjoy universal access to high quality medical care while paying relatively low premiums and expenses.
Taiwanese culture has also made an indelible mark on the world stage. The Nation is celebrated for the creativity of its music industry and its mix of street snacks and high-end restaurants has earned the praise of food experts and global travellers.
The people of Taiwan are noted for their kindness and hospitality, as well as the compassion they demonstrate through their significant contributions to international humanitarian appeals.
A Modern Society
Taiwan is known for its modern and dynamic cities and the convenient lifestyles they offer. This is reflected in its stores, which have adapted to meet the needs of 21st Century consumers by offering unique experiences and a variety of services.
There are currently over 10,000 convenience stores in the country, averaging approximately one store per every 2300 people, the highest density in the world.
People can go to these stores any time day or night to buy food, drinks and magazines, pay utility bills, purchase tickets, withdraw cash, make photocopies and send faxes. Convenience stores are one-stop shops for busy Taiwanese.
Book Store Chain
At a time when physical bookstores are being replaced by online alternatives, Taiwan’s Eslite Bookstore chain is defying this trend by expanding its operations. By offering customers a mixture of shopping and cultural experiences, the firm has made its stores a must-visit attraction for locals and tourists alike.
Eslite has dozens of branches in Taiwan, expanded to Causeway Bay in Hong Kong in 2012, and is scheduled to open a new branch in Suzhou, mainland China.
Taiwan has a population of 23 million people, but individual visits to Eslite stores reached 130 million in 2013, demonstrating the immense appeal of this innovative chain.
Source: 2014 Tenth Double National Day
