China Seminar | 13 January 2011

Taiwan and the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA)

Paul W. L. Chang

The relationship between Taiwan and China has entered a new era with the implementation of the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA). The agreement, signed on June 29, 2010, took effect on September 12, 2010. The pact seeks to normalize trade relations between Taiwan and China and paves the way for further talks between two sides of the Taiwan Strait on trade related matters. The agreement also presents a new opportunity for peaceful development in the Asia-Pacific Region.

Mr. Paul Chang, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in Honolulu, will share with us his insights on what the ECFA contains, why it is needed and what we can expect in the future. He will also explain Taiwan’s ideal partnership role in Asia in terms of investment opportunities, industrial cooperation, and business links with China and the ASEAN countries.

Director General Chang served as the Senior Official of Chinese Taipei (Taiwan) to the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) from 2008-2010 and the Deputy Chief Negotiator of the Office of Trade Negotiations from 2007-2008. He earned his M.A. degree from the Elliot School of International Affairs at George Washington University, and has served as the Taiwan government’s representative in Honolulu since July 1, 2010.