Taiwan Talk

Recent economic projections show Taiwan's economy on track to experience record growth. So if Taiwan is doing so well, why isn't everyone enjoying the fruits of Taiwan's high tech industries? Lin Thung-hong of Academia Sinica has studied the forces that have shaped Taiwan's economy for decades. He unpacks the origins of today's problems, which sees some sectors and households surge ahead while others stall or slip behind. He explains why he thinks Taiwan's economy isn't shaped the way economists think it is, and he traces the historical and structural forces that produced the divide, from industrial strategy to labor markets and wages. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan wants a cleaner, more resilient energy system - but can the grid, policies and public debate keep up? Taiwan Talk host Tim Berge speaks with Kewell Niu of GR Taiwan and Raoul Kubitschek of NIRAS Taiwan about the difficult choices facing Taiwan over the next decade. They explore electricity prices, pressure on the grid, overlooked energy options and what must change to turn ambitious goals into dependable power and solutions. The guests also offer a preview of the energy debate coming to the ECCT forum at Energy Taiwan at Tainex1 on Oct 15th. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

As the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund (ICDF) marks its 30th anniversary, Deputy Secretary General Peifen Hsieh joins Taiwan Talk to discuss Taiwan's distinctive approach to international development. She shares firsthand stories from projects in Paraguay and Eswatini, explains why local involvement and buy-in is essential, and looks at how TaiwanICDF is helping communities build resilience for the future. Hosted this week by Tim Berge. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan aims to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, but how close is it to meeting its renewable-energy goals? Taiwan Talk host Tim Berge speaks with** Bin Fu, Taiwan Country Manager at Lightsource bp**, and *Weiwei Tseng, Chairperson of wpd Taiwan*, about the state of solar and wind power, the permitting and land-use challenges facing developers, the role of energy storage, and what Taiwan must do now to keep its energy transition moving. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Made in Taiwan: TC Brown Returns After Five Decades Episode description TC Brown arrived in Taiwan in 1968 as an 18-year-old US Air Force military policeman who knew almost nothing about the country. The four years he spent here during the Vietnam War era would change his life. More than five decades later, Brown returned to discover a country transformed. In this episode of Taiwan Talk, the veteran journalist and author of "Made in Taiwan" recalls the Taiwan he first encountered, reflects on the people and experiences that shaped him, and explains why he believes part of him was truly "Made in Taiwan". -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Two decades after first coming to Taiwan as a visiting journalist and later returning as a scholarship student, Kenton X. Chance is back in a new role: Ambassador of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. As SVG and Taiwan mark 45 years of diplomatic relations, Ambassador Chance joins ICRT's Tim Berge to discuss Taiwan's international participation, opportunities for deeper economic cooperation and the people-to-people ties connecting the two countries. He also reflects on food, language and how Taiwan has changed since his student days. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Academia Sinica Scholar Paul Katz enjoys a deep fascination with Taiwan's ghost culture — from local folklore to the beliefs that still shape everyday life. We talk about how he first got drawn into the subject, what makes Taiwan's supernatural traditions distinct, and why these stories continue to matter in a modern, secular society. A fascinating dive into the island's spiritual undercurrents in time for Ghost Month… Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Jason Ma is the current Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles and has represented Taiwan some of the world's most consequential postings. He unpacks what sets multilateral EU diplomacy apart from the bilateral, high-stakes dynamics of DC, and why, at the end of the day, the adage "all politics is local" holds particularly true. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

On July 1, a shipment of Irwin mangoes from Tainan and black-leaf lychees from Taichung cleared customs in Manchester, marking Taiwan's first official export of these fruits to the United Kingdom for 2026. Getting the fruit from Taiwan to UK supermarket shelves was not easy. In this edition of Taiwan Talk, Sunray Fresh General Manager Kris Tang talks to Hope Ngo about the challenges the importer faced to get the fruit from Taiwan's farms onto British tables. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Resilience has become Taiwan's watchword — but what does it actually mean when the threat could be a typhoon, an earthquake, or an enemy encroachment? Enoch Wu, founder of Forward Alliance and a former National Security Council official, has spent five years turning that question into a training program for ordinary citizens. We talk about what whole-of-society defense really requires — and whether volunteer readiness can hold up without more state support. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Japan-based Akira Itoh is a "drone evangelist" who has written extensively about the birth and development of Taiwan's budding UAV industry. Itoh has tracked Taiwan's progress as it endeavors to create a drone hub from near-scratch. He also shares his thoughts on why delivering on a 'non-red' supply chain may not be as simple as it sounds. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Content creator Sonya Chang is the mind behind "Sonya Bites Life.". We dig into her process, what keeps her inspired, and how she turns everyday moments into content that once won her a Zagat Foodie Award for her prominent role in the U.S. Pacific Northwest culinary scene. A candid look at creativity, consistency, and finding your voice online. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Chef John Liu of Los Angeles Michelin Bib restaurant Chifa joins us to talk about his culinary journey and the inspirations behind his cooking. We dig into his ties with Taiwan through his dad, his creative partnership with brother-in-law and noted designer Umberto Leon and how family shapes both the kitchen and the menu. A warm conversation about heritage, collaboration, and the meaning of home through food. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

She's known for documenting the popular Love Boat phenomenon of the 90s and early 2000s. Now, filmmaker Valerie Soe tells the story of the the grassroots network of "aunties" who sewed masks for their communities during the COVID-19 outbreak.The Auntie Sewing Squad Resistance Playbook, is a moving look at solidarity, craft, and community in crisis. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo -- first aired on May 18, 2016. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Betty Song is founder and head of the Taiwan Chamber of Commerce Denmark. Sheshares the story behind one of the newest voices in the Taiwan business community abroad. From her early life to her decision to build an organization from the ground up, Betty opens up about what drives her — and what she hopes the Chamber will mean for Taiwan's presence in Denmark. Hosted by I.C.R.T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan Representative to Denmark Robin J.C. Cheng's career in Taiwan's Foreign Service spans several stints across the United States, Tuvalu, and now Denmark. The de-facto ambassador traces his path from law student to seasoned diplomat, and opens up about what he hopes to achieve for Taiwan in the northern European country. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

This week on Taiwan Talk, Tim Berge sits down with Lutz Guellner, Head of the European Economic and Trade Office in Taiwan, to mark Europe Day — the anniversary of the landmark 1950 Schuman Declaration that laid the foundations for the European Union. We explore the EETO's mission in Taiwan, from trade and economics to culture and people-to-people ties. Plus, we look at how the relationship between Europe and Taiwan has evolved in recent years. Finally we get personal — hearing about Mr. Guellner's journey to Taiwan, his favorite experiences here, and the local taste-treats he's come to love, and cook! -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

What do a luxury hotel, a luxury steakhouse, and an audacious vegan ice cream maker have in common? Capella Taipei, Smith and Wollensky, and Nice Cream saw opportunities within the entertainment as well as food and beverage spaces and became successes. I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo talks to them about their recipes for success. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

They first returned to Taiwan to get away from COVID, and they've since found success as Taiwan's English-language, sibling broadcasting duo. Ryan and Taylor Chen talk about what its like to work with siblings, and the audience they're building, one season at a time. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Section 301 of the U-S Trade Act of 1974 is a broad tool which authorizes the sitting U.S. President to negotiate trade agreements, reduce tariffs, and combat unfair foreign trade practices. In mid-March, the U.S. Trade Representative's office put Taiwan on two 301-related lists: one for failing to take action over structural excess capacity, and the other, for failing to take action over accusations of false labor. International Trade attorney James Ransdell explains the regulation, and how it is being used against traditional U-S allies today. Hosted by I.C.R.T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

It takes plenty of courage to go from "I could do this" to "I did it"… but Jane and Alex Denner did that when they launched Empress Hot Sauce. The brand is known for taking Taiwan's well-loved fruits and spicing them up to create Western-style companions to any meal. Hosted by Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

HoChie Tsai was just a toddler when his family moved to the U.S. But unlike many immigrants, Tsai's parents were fleeing political repression under martial law in Taiwan. Tsai talks about that legacy, and how that helped to shape his identity first as an Asian American activist and physician. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan is known around the world for its cutting-edge high tech parks as well as its revolutionary health care system. But underneath all this lies a social issue experienced around the world -- one involving the unhoused. This episode we look at the issue of homelessness in Taipei through the eyes of Luke Pigott, Project Manager at Salt Collectiv, which brings together international volunteers working for the interests of the vulnerable and marginalized. We also hear from "Uncle Liang" -- who sheds light on the personal experiences of the unhoused and through the lens of his own experiences. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Old-timers who have lived here for decades may remember a time when dining options that went beyond Taiwanese cuisine were very limited. But that's changed, thanks in part to the presence of restaurants like MK or Mayur Indian Kitchen. The restaurant chain is a byword for Indian cuisine on the island. ICRT's Hope Ngo speaks with Mayur Srivastava -- whose hard work and determination turned MK into a cuisine powerhouse. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan's presence on the global stage is often hindered due to international politics. But, the recent visit to Taipei by Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego points to a practical solution. As Tamkang Univeristy professor of Diplomacy and International Affairs James Chen explains, urban diplomacy opens diplomacy at the subnational level, and can lead to practical and positive solutions which impact our everyday lives. ICRT's Hope Ngo and Tim Berge tell us more. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Over the next decade Taiwan hopes to add at least one giga-watt of geo-thermal energy to its electrical grid, or the equivalent of one nuclear reactor. This week in Taiwan Talk, ICRT’s Tim Berge speaks to Van Hoang from Sweden’s Baseload Power… which recently signed an agreement in Hualien to develop a geothermal plant in the Hongye community. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Those of us who are happy to see 2025 behind us may be excited for what's ahead. But if we're looking for more quiet times ahead, we may not get our wish. Feng Shui Master Roger Lan tells us how we might be able to take (some) control of what he promises will be a fast-paced year. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

"Invisible Nation" is a living account of Tsai’s tightrope walk as she balances the hopes and dreams of her nation between the colossal geopolitical forces of the U.S. and China. Invisible Nation captures Tsai at work in her country’s vibrant democracy, while seeking full international recognition of Taiwan’s right to exist. - from "Invisible Nation" Award-winning filmmaker Vanessa Hope ties her personal journey to that of bringing the documentary to the screen, and how -- even three years after it was first released-- "Invisible Nation" remains relevant to the discourse about and surrounding Taiwan. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

The Christmas season hits differently for Taiwan's foreign community whose memories of the holiday season involves more than just mall visits, trees, and carols piped in through the audio system. We speak to three European businessmen who have chosen to make Taiwan their home in this special holiday edition of Taiwan Talk. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

2025 was full of surprises and unexpected turns for many economies around the world … including Taiwan's.ING's Chief Economist for Greater China Lynn Song gives us his hot takes on what made 2025 a banner one for Taiwan, and he looks ahead to the tailwinds -- and headwinds -- that are likely to influence our business outcomes in the coming year. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan is home to numerous natural disasters and other threats, making civil defense a top priority. Compounding matters, many people don't know how to prepare, or understand what to do when calamity strikes. Meeting this challenge is the Resilience Roadmap, from longtime resident John Groot. The guidebook includes everything you need to know -- in English -- to prepare for a rainy day. Hosted by ICRT's Tim Berge. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Not everyone might be enchanted with the idea of vegan gelato -- but Nice Cream could be the brand that convinces hard-nosed skeptics to change their minds. The brand which has two thumbs up from noted vegan site Happy Cow got its start in Taiwan and has gone from strength to strength, thanks to hard work and determination on the part of its owners Mirko and Patty. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

This week ICRT's Tim Berge hops on his wheels. Tourists from around the world travel to Taiwan to explore its mountains, valleys and coastlines by bicycle. Viola van Onselen and Erik van Onselen-de Jong originally came to Taiwan to pursue higher education, but quickly got the cycling bug. To stay healthy and escape urban pressure, they began exploring the beauty and charms of Taiwan by bike. And their book “A Cyclist’s Guide to Taiwan”, is the product of their adventures. The book is easy to understand, covers all of Taiwan, and includes breathtaking photos which chronicle their adventures. Get your copy of the book online, at onsgo.org/shop. Aired 12/1/25 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

If You Know, You Know. That's probably what death metal fans would say about the island's thriving death metal scene, which has spawned the likes of bands including Assaasin, Chthonic, Dharma, and Flesh Juicer. To mark the first ever Formosa: Finland: Fest, we took a closer look at Taiwan's thriving metal scene with the help of a few friends: Deputy Representative and Trade Representative of the Finland Trade Center Jere Tala, and Frank Chu of the band Second Round. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo and Jacob Ingram. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

His works are bold, powerful, and memorable. Taiwan-based Mongolian artist Tsengkun Engkhbold talks about how he got his start in Taiwan, and how his father's works served as an inspiration for his art. Enkghbold holds a joint exhibition with his father in December. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Taiwan may be an up-and-coming international destination -- but not every country is equally represented here. We caught up with Iranian national Fan Di Shen ( 范低紳) or "Dave", the owner of carpet gallery "Arsham" about what drew him to make Taiwan his home, and what it took to turn his carpet art gallery into a success. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

In this week's Taiwan Talk, ICRT's Tim Berge talks to former Interior Minister and NTU Civll Engineering professor Lee Hong-yuan about the Guangfu tragedy in Hualien, from its cause to what needs to be done moving forward. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

If the pandemic helped accelerate changes in Taiwan's dining scene -- were there similar factors that influenced Taiwan's spirits scene? Former Director of the British Chamber of Commerce in Taipei and veteran retail expert Steve Parker explains why he thinks democracy made it possible for Taiwan's homegrown wine and spirits industry to thrive. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Tim Berge and Hope Ngo. Also check out past discussions with Taiwanese wine expert Leona di Pasquale and Weightstone Vineyards' Vivian Yang. I-C-R-T would like to take this opportunity to remind you to consume alcohol responsibly. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Can someone work in several Michelin kitchens and start from scratch to build his own? That's what we asked Leonardo Fonseca Celis who recently set up his own restaurant Fon-Cé in Taipei. He talks about his challenges and his dreams. Hosted by ICRT 's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

International Director of The Michelin Guides Gwendal Poullennec returns to Taiwan Talk to share his thoughts about how Taiwan's dining scene evolved for the better after the pandemic. And in this exclusive chat, one of the guide's anonymous chief inspectors tells us how the guides identify and rank Taiwan's acclaimed Bib Gourmand restaurants. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

In late September, U.S. Customs and Border Protection issued a shock announcement: that it was issuing a Withold Release Order on Giant Manufacturing -- a move that bans bicycles, bicycle parts, and accessories manufactured in Taiwan. International Trade & Customs Attorney James Ransdell explains the order, the actions Giant can take to get it lifted, and whether this can be linked to Taipei's trade negotiations with Washington. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Coming to Taipei’s DaDaoCheng neighborhood in October is the annual Tua-Tiu-Tiann International Festival of Arts (or… T-T TIFA). For this week’s Taiwan Talk, ICRT’s Tim Berge spoke to Matt Fullen and Taylor Chuang about one of Taiwan’s premier music and arts festivals. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

A remarkable soundtrack that resonates deeply is one of the most important components of a successful film. The soundtrack helps to tell the story, and impact the audience in subtle and evocative ways. ICRT’s Tim Berge speaks with Thomas Foguenne, a composer originally from Belgium, but who now splits his time in Taiwan, where he has created soundtracks for movies, shows, and more. His most recent project, Stranger Eyes, garnered him recognition at the 2024 Golden Horse Awards and the 2025 Taipei Film Fest, where took home the respective awards for Best Original Score. Originally broadcast Sept 8, 2025 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Bilateral relations between Taiwan and the United States have not always been smooth. Nearly 50 years ago, an American armed serviceman shot and killed a Taiwan counterpart, Liu Ziran -- setting off a series of riots which strained bilateral relations. If you'd never heard about the incident, which took place in 1957, it's time to put on a pair of headphones and take a listen. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

What do you call your meal choice when you take a hard pass at animal product options? Do you call yourself "vegan" or is your meal "plant-based?" The two terms may mean the same thing, but entrepreneurs are making a switch from "vegan" to "plant-based" for branding reasons, and they explain why. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Originally broadcast June 9, 2025: Anders Norell is noted for serenading Taiwan audiences with the musical magic his flute brings. Norell has made his mark as the principal flute with the National Symphony Orchestra of Taiwan Although he’s travelled and performed extensively throughout the whole world, he has never forgets the Swedish countryside where he grew up, which impacts his music to this day. He joined ICRT’s Hope Ngo and Tim Berge for this inspiring conversation. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

It should be a given that all animals, regardless of what their natural habitats are, feel pain. Gothenburg University Professor Lynne Sneddon, who is in Taiwan for the Asia for Animals Conference, has done extensive research on just that -- and she talks about how to better care for fish so their lives are pain-free -- whether they live in lakes, streams, oceans, and home aquariums. Hosted by ICRT’s Tim Berge. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

He is one of Taiwan's most successful career public servants. Jason Hu (胡志強) has served across most levels of executive government and has the knowledge and wisdom to show for it. He shares stories from his life -- and his new book -- with ICRT's Hope Ngo and Tim Berge. A full version of the interview will follow. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Archive film isn't for everyone -- but for film buffs who are interested in Taiwan's film history, there is the Taiwan Film and Audio Visual Institute, which owns the most extensive collection of old films and newsreels in Taiwan. Its Director Iris Du talks about the importance of maintaining a film archive and. Hosted by I-C-R-T's Hope Ngo. A part of TFAI's library may be accessed through its YouTube Channel. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

What does it take to turn a passion into a business? Te Company founder Elena Liao talks about how she took a passing interest in tea into a thriving tea boutique serving up teas and pastries, located in Manhattan's West Village. Hosted by ICRT's Hope Ngo. Learn more about Te Company here. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn