Taiwan’s business leaders convene in South Florida
With a picture-perfect view of the Atlantic Ocean, blue skies, and a gentle breeze swaying the palm trees, Florida rolled out its best for visitors attending the recent annual meeting of the North American Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce Association (NATCCA). For the first time, the gathering was held in South Florida, a testament to the region’s growing importance in global trade and diplomacy. With bilateral business activities on the rise, business leaders from Taiwan, the United States, and Canada gathered at the Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa in Fort Lauderdale to strengthen ties and explore opportunities.
The NATCCA, founded in 1988, serves as a platform for connecting Taiwanese business leaders across North America. With 35 chapters spanning the U.S. and Canada and over 500 active members, its mission goes beyond networking. “Our goal is to create opportunities for businesses to grow and connect, not only in North America but also with Taiwan and beyond,” says Arthur Chen, President of the NATCCA. “We act as a bridge to facilitate trade, investment, and connections across industries.”
The event attracted leaders from industries that align with South Florida’s strengths in biotechnology, aerospace, and green energy; Taiwan’s dominant role in the global production of semiconductors was not far from any discussion. The gathering of 500 Taiwanese business leaders also reflected broader shifts in the island nation’s trade strategy. “This year, the U.S. has reclaimed its position as Taiwan’s number one export market, overtaking Mainland China,” noted the Vice President of the Legislative Yuan of the Republic of China (Taiwan), Johnny Chiang. “The geopolitical landscape, including trade tensions between the U.S. and China, has significantly shaped this shift, and Taiwan is taking advantage.”
Taiwan’s expertise in high-tech industries has made it a critical partner for the U.S. as both nations aim to diversify supply chains and reduce reliance on Mainland China. Discussions at the meeting also emphasized emerging opportunities in artificial intelligence, green energy, and medical innovation, and explored the possibility of direct flights between Miami and Taiwan. Trade between Taiwan and the Miami Customs District (which includes Broward County and Fort Lauderdale) reached $899 million in 2023. Exports from Miami to Taiwan accounted for $186 million, with key categories including vaccines, blood, antisera, and toxins valued at $84.1 million, followed by $29.2 million in scrap iron and $9.02 million in aircraft parts. Imports from Taiwan were significantly higher at $713 million, led by $154 million in recreational boats, $78.5 million in blank audio media, and $45.6 million in motor vehicle parts.
Fort Lauderdale’s mayor Dean Trantalis welcomed attendees, highlighting the city’s emergence as a hub for global commerce. “It’s been an amazing transformation for a city that was once focused on retirement in Florida and is now a center for national and international commerce, tourism, and cultural exchange,” he said. “As the leader of this city, it’s vital to me that we continue to elevate Fort Lauderdale on the global stage – and Taiwan is a key part of that vision.”
The Miami Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce played a critical role in organizing the event, showcasing South Florida to its colleagues. Like other North American chambers, the local chapter (with 50-60 active members) works to link Taiwanese businesses with local opportunities and counterparts. “We need to promote Taiwan as a business partner, expand partnerships, and drive future growth,” said Chen.
Some Taiwanese companies already have a presence in South Florida, including BioTissue (stem cells), King of Fans (fan manufacturing and distribution), ADATA (cell phone power packs), and several yacht manufacturers with offices and warehouses here. Taiwanese electronics firms like ACER, BENQ, and WPG Holdings also maintain their Latin American HQs here. “This region has much potential for Taiwanese businesses,” said Chen. “By hosting this meeting here, we’re laying the groundwork for deeper collaboration and mutual growth.”
