Economy

TAITRA pursues overseas growth opportunities

Taiwan’s solar module-makers are set to benefit from TAITRA efforts aimed at sparking business opportunities for homegrown firms in foreign markets. (CNA)

• Publication Date：08/17/2012
• Source： Taiwan Today

Taiwan External Trade Association (TAITRA) is working with major overseas companies to boost orders for locally made products and give the island’s services sector and economy a shot in the arm.

“We have organized 100 one-on-one matchmaking meetings and invited over 14 buyers from Germany, Japan, Singapore, Spain, Sweden and the U.K. to visit Taiwan and purchase items such as solar panels, LED lights and inverters,” a TAITRA official said Aug. 16.

“These efforts are expected to deliver business opportunities of nearly US$10 billion.”

One of the firms, Buro Happold Ltd., which contracted the London Olympic athletes’ village project, has expressed interest in setting up a joint venture with local companies on green energy and smart cities.

Viessmann Group, a German company with turnover of nearly 2 billion euros (US$2.5 billion), is set to purchase solar modules during an upcoming visit; and Barcelona Reginal, a Spanish local government-run engineering outsourcer, is investigating third-country business opportunities with Taiwan-based outfits.

In addition, Kajima Corp., one of Japan’s top five construction companies, plans to buy solar batteries and related products, according to the official.

TAITRA will also organize trade promotion delegations to India, Myanmar and Sri Lanka in the middle of September and November as part of efforts to help local industries raise their profiles in these emerging markets.

Myanmar is a source of untapped potential for Taiwan businesses, the official said, adding that it boasts a population of 60 million, abundant natural resources and an infrastructure in need of development.

“We urge Taiwan’s business representatives to participate in the delegation, learn more about this Southeastern Asian country and keep abreast of follow-up opportunities.” (HSJ-JSM)