In January Ma Ying-jeou was re-elected as Taiwan’s President following an election campaign that was dominated by debates on Taiwan’s relationship with mainland China. But his re-election was by no means assured as Taiwan also faces multiple domestic challenges in the coming years: an ageing population, the loss of talent to other countries, insufficient economic growth and the island’s inability to attract international investors are among the main concerns. However, many problems in Taiwan stem from its problematic relationship with neighbouring China. In his first term Ma Ying-jeou stabilised political cross-strait relations by improving trade relations and opening regular direct flights and shipping links. It is therefore expected that Ma Ying-jeou will further improve political and economic ties with China.
The latest edition of China Analysis, published by ECFR and Asia Centre explores the debates surrounding Taiwan’s relations with Beijing in the aftermath of the election.
Summary
– TAIWAN AFTER THE ELECTION –
Reactions on the mainland to the Taiwanese election (Jean-Pierre Cabestan)
Ma Ying-jeou’s mainland strategy in a changing strategic environment (Mathieu Duchâtel)
A crisis of conscience in the Democratic Progressive Party (Hubert Kilian)
The business world mobilises to re-elect Ma Ying-jeou (Tanguy Le Pesant)