In creating the Taiwan ASEAN Studies Center (TASC), we have made a commitment both to better understand developments in economic and trade cooperation in East Asia and to appreciate fully the factors now driving growth in ASEAN member states. TASC will leverage the extensive research and experience and the active international and domestic networks of the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research (CIER) to strengthen pragmatic and mutually beneficial ties between Taiwan and ASEAN businesses, government agencies and academic institutions in the realms of trade, investment and economic cooperation.

Supported by its professional credentials, the TASC promotes active dialogue between domestic and ASEAN, East Asian and Pacific Rim-based think tanks on issues of current relevance and practical importance. The Center also takes the lead through various academic discussions, professional roundtables and practical exchanges to form specific policy recommendations regarding Taiwan’s future participation in regional trade and economic partnerships that may be referenced by relevant policymaking agencies. We will further leverage our Internet presence and various TASC publications to consolidate and streamline access to ASEAN-related research as well as to broaden access to supporting information and data. The TASC will enhance professional cooperation, serve as a platform for sharing relevant research findings, and assist domestic and overseas experts on Taiwan’s trade and economy to better understand the current status and future potential of Taiwan’s participation in regional economic accords.

The TASC organization will form offices focused on research and exchanges in the arenas of economics, business, the law, Cross-Strait (Taiwan - China) affairs, and international relations. We will run the Center as an open, professional platform, welcoming the participation of domestic and international experts and enhancing the practical effect of relevant research work in order to achieve results that are intellectually relevant, systematized, international, diversified and readily accessible to the general public.

Dr. Bih Jane Liu, Director
Taiwan ASEAN Studies Center