Doing Business with Taiwan

Exporting goods to Taiwan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Research Market Requirements

   • Understand Taiwan’s import regulations and product standards.

2. Identify Your Product’s HS Code

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for tariff and regulation details.

3. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary export documents: commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and bill of lading.

4. Check Tariff and Non-Tariff Barriers

   • Verify any tariffs and ensure compliance with non-tariff measures.

5. Select a Reliable Freight Forwarder

   • Choose a logistics provider experienced in shipping to Taiwan.

6. Comply with Labeling and Packaging Regulations

   • Ensure your products meet Taiwanese labeling and packaging standards.

7. Arrange for Insurance

   • Secure insurance to cover potential shipping risks.

8. Submit Customs Declaration

   • Work with your freight forwarder to submit the necessary customs declaration.

9. Track and Confirm Delivery

   • Monitor the shipment to ensure it reaches the destination safely.

Key Contacts

• Taiwan Customs Administration
  • Website: Taiwan Customs Administration
• Bureau of Foreign Trade, MOEA
  • Website: Bureau of Foreign Trade

Importing goods into Taiwan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Register as an Importer

   • Ensure your business is registered and authorized to import goods in Taiwan.

2. Classify Your Goods

   • Determine the Harmonized System (HS) code for your products to understand tariffs and duties.

3. Check Import Requirements

   • Verify if your goods need specific licenses or permits under Taiwanese regulations.

4. Prepare Documentation

   • Gather necessary documents: commercial invoice, bill of lading, packing list, and certificate of origin.

5. Select a Customs Broker

   • Engage a licensed customs broker to assist with the import process.

6. Submit Import Declaration

   • File the import declaration with Taiwan Customs Administration.

7. Pay Duties and Taxes

   • Calculate and pay any applicable import duties and taxes.

8. Arrange for Cargo Clearance

   • Coordinate with your freight forwarder or customs broker for the clearance and delivery of goods.

Key Contacts

• Taiwan Customs Administration
  • Website: Taiwan Customs Administration
• Bureau of Foreign Trade, MOEA
  • Website: Bureau of Foreign Trade

Incorporating a company in Taiwan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of company, such as a Limited Company or a Company Limited by Shares.

2. Check Name Availability

   • Ensure your company name is unique and register it with the Department of Commerce.

3. Prepare Required Documents

   • Draft the Articles of Incorporation and other necessary documents.

4. Apply for Company Registration

   • Submit your application to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA).

5. Open a Bank Account

   • Open a corporate bank account to deposit the initial capital.

6. Apply for Business Registration

   • Register with the local tax authority to obtain a business registration certificate.

7. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for any industry-specific permits or licenses if required.

Costs

• Registration Fee: Varies depending on the company type and capital.
• Minimum Capital: No minimum capital requirement, but practical starting capital should be considered.

Key Contacts

• Department of Commerce, MOEA
  • Website: Department of Commerce
• Investment Commission, MOEA
  • Website: Investment Commission

Setting up a manufacturing plant in Taiwan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Feasibility Study
   • Assess market demand, location suitability, and resource availability.

2. Choose a Business Structure

   • Decide on the type of business entity, such as a Limited Company.

3. Register the Company

   • Register your business with the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA).

4. Secure Financing

   • Arrange funding through banks or investors.

5. Select a Location

   • Choose an industrial area with access to necessary infrastructure and resources.

6. Obtain Necessary Permits and Licenses

   • Apply for environmental, health, and safety permits from local authorities.

7. Design and Construct the Facility

   • Hire architects and contractors to design and build the plant according to regulations.

8. Purchase and Install Equipment

   • Acquire machinery that meets safety and operational standards.

9. Hire and Train Employees

   • Recruit skilled workers and provide necessary training.

10. Set Up Supply Chain and Distribution

    • Establish relationships with suppliers and distributors.

Key Contacts

• Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA)
  • Website: MOEA
• Industrial Development Bureau, MOEA
  • Website: Industrial Development Bureau

Registering a trademark in Taiwan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Conduct a Trademark Search

   • Check the availability of your trademark through the Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO).

2. Prepare Your Application

   • Gather necessary details, including the trademark design and a list of goods/services.

3. File the Application

   • Submit your application online or in person to TIPO.

4. Pay the Application Fee

   • The fee varies based on the number of classes and type of application. Check TIPO for current rates.

5. Application Examination

   • TIPO examines the application for compliance and potential conflicts.

6. Publication for Opposition

   • If approved, the trademark is published for opposition, allowing others to contest it.

7. Receive Registration Certificate

   • If no oppositions are filed, you will receive the official trademark registration certificate.

Key Contacts

• Taiwan Intellectual Property Office (TIPO)
  • Website: TIPO

Resolving commercial disputes in Taiwan involves several key steps. Here’s a detailed guide:

1. Consult Legal Counsel

   • Engage a lawyer experienced in Taiwanese commercial law for advice.

2. Attempt Negotiation

   • Try to resolve the dispute amicably through direct negotiation between parties.

3. Mediation

   • Use mediation services to facilitate a resolution. This approach may be quicker and less costly.

4. Arbitration

   • Consider arbitration through institutions like the Chinese Arbitration Association, Taipei, for a binding decision.

5. Litigation

   • If necessary, file a lawsuit in the appropriate Taiwanese court. Be prepared for a formal legal process.

6. Enforcement of Judgments

   • Ensure the court’s or arbitration’s decision is enforced through the relevant authorities.

Costs

• Legal Fees: Vary depending on the complexity and duration of the dispute.
• Court Fees: Required for litigation, depending on the case specifics.
• Mediation/Arbitration Fees: Vary based on the service provider.

Key Contacts

• Judicial Yuan
  • Website: Judicial Yuan
• Chinese Arbitration Association, Taipei
  • Website: Chinese Arbitration Association

Social and Cultural Factors

• Language and Communication
  • Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Understanding cultural nuances and building relationships are crucial.
• Business Etiquette
  • Respect for hierarchy and punctuality is important. Business cards are exchanged with both hands.

Political Environment

• Stability and Regulations
  • Taiwan has a stable political environment with clear business regulations. Stay informed about any changes in policies.

Economic Factors

• Foreign Exchange
  • The New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) is the currency. Monitor exchange rates and consider hedging strategies.
• Market Opportunities
  • Strong in technology, electronics, and manufacturing sectors.

Legal and Regulatory Environment

• Rule of Law
  • Taiwan has a robust legal system that supports business operations and protects intellectual property rights.
• Intellectual Property
  • Trademark and patent protection are well-established. Ensure your IP is registered and protected.

Additional Considerations

• Infrastructure
  • Taiwan has advanced infrastructure, supporting efficient logistics and transportation.
• Corruption and Bureaucracy
  • Generally low levels of corruption. Bureaucratic processes are straightforward but require adherence to regulations.

Key Resources

• Taiwan Trade Center
  • Website: Taiwan Trade Center
• Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA)
  • Website: TAITRA