Decoupling, Taiwan-style

DECOUPLING has become common parlance, voiced amidst the tensions of Sino-American contestation. Policies by the Biden administration seek to shift the global system of supply chains away from China, and already have some impacts on countries and companies. Taiwan would appear to be the prime candidate.

Viewed by mainland China as a “renegade province”, the island played host in August 2022 to the then US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. In response, the People’s Liberation Army has shown off its increasing military capability, while the United States reiterated promises to assist the island to defend itself. Some American experts and officials suggest invasion could be imminent.

An outsider might conclude Taiwan has little choice but to side with the United States. Yes, there are some voices that call for independence, and count on American support and protection. However, during a recent visit, I found views within the island are more complex and nuanced, in both business and politics