The economics ministry has set up a new task force to help Taiwanese companies expand their markets in Africa.
The task force formed on Monday is called the African Market Promotion Office. It is overseen by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA).
At the launch ceremony on Monday, TAITRA Chairman Francis Liang said there are lots of business opportunities in Africa and that TAITRA has already targeted some specific areas for market research.
"For example, products needed for infrastructure, energy-saving products and basic consumer goods. They encompass the green energy sector, mechanics, electrical engineering, information and communications technology, food, hand tools manufacturing, and building materials," said Liang.
Liang said, though, that there are inevitable risks involved, as Africa is far away from Taiwan and that there is less stability in the political environment.
Government statistics show that Taiwan’s exports to Africa amounted to nearly US$2.35 billion last year, which is less than one percent of Taiwan’s total exports.