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Taiwan Introduces Plan to Attract Tourists — by Paying Them

The new incentive program comes as the government aims to draw in six million tourists in 2023 and then 10 million tourists by 2025.

kecl/GETTY IMAGES

Taiwan is looking to boost its tourism numbers, and will hand out cash to visitors as an incentive to come.

The island will hand out NT $5,000 (or about $166) to 500,000 individual tourists along with up to NT $20,000 (or about $667) to 90,000 tour groups, CNN reported . The money will be given out digitally after tourists arrive, according to the Taipei Times , and can be used to cover expenses while in Taiwan , including for food or accommodation.

However, travelers looking to plan a trip may want to hold tight since it was not immediately clear when the money would be issued or how to apply for it, according to CNN .

“The money will be given out through multiple tourism promotion events this year, rather than giving it all out at once,” Tourism Bureau Director-General Chang Shi-chung said, according to the Taipei Times . “As such, not all international tourists would receive it.“

The new incentive program comes as the government aims to draw in six million tourists in 2023 and then 10 million tourists by 2025, CNN noted.

Transport Minister Wang Kuo-tsai said the island hopes to use the incentive to bring in visitors from key markets, including Japan, South Korea, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Macao, Europe, and America.

Taiwan welcomes travelers, including from the United States, without the need to test for COVID-19 before their trip, according to the American Institute in Taiwan . The country also dropped quarantine rules in October and eased mask rules in December.

Taiwan isn’t the first destination to pay tourists to visit. In 2021, Malta introduced a scheme to pay tourists to stay in hotels there, and last year, a region in Italy’s northeastern corner chose to cover traveler’s train fare in an effort to promote sustainable travel.

On the other hand, several destinations have introduced plans to collect tourist fees , including Thailand , Venice , and Europe as a whole.

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Taiwan the Lucky Land

• Eligibility

Campaign Rules

• How to Join
• Register Now Register for the lucky draw Search registration information
• Travel Prizes E-ticket-iPass E-ticket-EasyCard E-ticket-icash2.0 Accommodation vouchers
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Period: 12 pm on May 1, 2023 to June 30, 2025 The event times below are based on Taiwan local time (UTC/GMT +08:00)

Registration Period

• Eligible travelers should register personal information (including name, nationality, passport number, arrival date and flight, departure date, email address) and choose the type of travel prize (e-ticket card or accommodation voucher) 1-7 days before their scheduled arrival date in Taiwan. The system will automatically send the QR code to the email address registered by the traveler after successful registration.

Campaign Period

• The event times below are based on Taiwan local time (UTC/GMT +08:00).
• The campaign starts with any flight from the scheduled flight arrival time in Taiwan at 12:00 noon on May 1, 2023 (registration will be open from 12:00 noon on April 28, 2023) to June 30, 2025. However, travel prizes will not be issued once the quota for the year is exhausted.

Prize Categories and How to Use

Pre-paid (E-ticket) cards:

• These cards can be used, where accepted. The maximum single-use limit for the EasyCard is NT$1,500, while for iPASS it is NT$1,000. The daily usage limit is NT$3,000 for both EasyCard and iPass. The icash2.0 card does not have a daily or single-use spending limit.
• Use Range: EasyCard: https://www.easycard.com.tw/en/use-range iPASS: https://www.i-pass.com.tw/en/Page/e-voucher%20card icash2.0: https://www.icash.com.tw/en_web/useBase.html

• III.  When registering for the lucky draw, the traveler is responsible for ensuring the correctness and authenticity of the information that they supply. If a traveler is unable to participate in the event or collect a prize due to any errors, this shall be the responsibility of the traveler and not the event organizer. Any person found to be misappropriating the personal information of others or engaging in any other malfeasance shall be held liable and responsible in accordance with the applicable laws.

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Taiwan government is giving away NT$5,000 travel vouchers to tourists

Here's everything you need to know

Planning for a trip to Taiwan? Well, you're in luck as the Taiwan government has just announced that they will be dishing out travel vouchers (much like our consumption voucher scheme , but travel edition) with the aim to boost tourism and attract foreign visitors to the country. Here's what you need to know:

What is it?

Starting May 1, 2023 (12pm), the Taiwan Tourism Bureau will be distributing 500,000 vouchers worth NT$5,000 each (approximately HK$1,280) as travel incentives for tourists visiting Taiwan. The vouchers will be given out through a lucky draw system and will run all the way through to June 30, 2025. The first 250,000 vouchers will be given out in 2023, while the remaining 150,000 vouchers will be distributed in 2024, and 100,000 vouchers in 2025.

Who is eligible?

Independent travellers who do not hold a ROC (Republic of China) passport and are staying in Taiwan for three to 90 days are eligible. However, this does not apply to those travelling in tour groups. In other words, Hong Kong residents holding a Hong Kong passport can participate!

How do I enter the lucky draw?

The rules are simple. Those who are eligible can register online one to seven days prior to their arrival date in Taiwan on a designated government website (5000.taiwan.net.tw). Registration begins on April 28 at 12pm – but remember, the lucky draw only starts from May 1, 12pm onwards.

Participants must fill in the necessary travel information and choose the type of vouchers they would like to receive (electronic tickets or accommodation discount vouchers). A QR code for the lucky draw will be sent to you via email upon successful registration.

On the day of arrival in Taiwan, participants can head to the lucky draw event area located at the arrival halls in one of four Taiwan airports: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, Taipei Songshan Airport, Taichung International Airport, and Kaohsiung International Airport.

How do I collect my prize?

Lucky winners may head to the airport's redemption area and provide relevant documents – including their entry stamp, boarding pass, and an electronic copy of their round-trip tickets – to redeem their prize.

How can I use the travel vouchers?

Those who have chosen to claim their prize in the form of electronic tickets may store the money on an EasyCard or iPass and spend them at designated merchants. Each transaction limit is NT$5,000, while the maximum usage per day is NT$3,000.

Meanwhile, winners who have opted for accommodation discounts will receive five vouchers worth NT$1,000 each. The vouchers can only be used once by the winner at hotels with tourist hotel business licenses and commercial hotels or hostels with registered licenses. The vouchers can not be reused or resold.

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Accelerated and Expanded Inbound Tourism Promotion Program - Taiwan the Lucky Land

交通部觀光署為促進國際觀光客來台，針對來台旅客及旅行業提供促銷優惠誘因，故推動本方案。

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Foreign independent travelers who hold foreign (non-ROC) passports, have stays in Taiwan of 3-90 days, are not members of tour groups, and are not applying for any group-related ROC travel incentives.

The event times below are based on Taiwan local time (UTC/GMT +08:00)

The lucky draw promotion will begin with flights scheduled to arrive in Taiwan on or after 12 pm (noon) on May 1, 2023. It will continue through June 30, 2025. Registration for the promotion will open at 12 pm (noon) on April 28, 2023.

(1) Travelers may register from one to seven days before their scheduled arrival date in Taiwan. Log in to the event website and provide the requested information (such as name, nationality, passport number, flight number, dates of arrival/departure and e-mail address). Select the type of payment you would like to receive (a pre-paid e-ticket card or hotel discount vouchers). Once your registration is successful, the system will automatically send a lucky draw QR code to your registered e-mail.

航班表定抵達臺灣日之 1-7 天前至活動網站登錄相關資訊 (含姓名、國籍、護照號碼、抵臺日期及航班、離臺日期、電子信箱) ，並且選擇消費金種類 (電子票證或住宿折抵優惠券擇一)，登錄成功後，系統將自動發送抽獎 QR Code 至旅客所登載之電子信箱。

(2) Registration timing example: For a flight that is scheduled to arrive in Taiwan at 23:59 on June 1st, travelers can begin registering for the lucky draw at 00:00 on May 25, and the registration window will be open until 23:59:59 on May 30.

On the day you arrive in Taiwan, use the QR Code obtained during event registration to participate in the lucky draw. Proceed to the event area of your airport’s arrival hall. You must complete your lucky draw within the airport arrival hall on the day you arrive in Taiwan. Taiwan’s airports include Taoyuan International Airport (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2), Taipei Songshan Airport, Taichung International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport.

If the lottery screen shows that you have won a prize, please present your passport and relevant supporting documents (including entry stamp, boarding pass, and electronic round-trip air ticket) to the staff at the prize redemption area. You will then sign to confirm receipt and collect your prize. The type of prize you receive will be the same as you requested at the time of registration. This cannot be changed once it has been entered into the system. Prize redemption can only be completed on the day of arrival in Taiwan.

Reminder: Prizes will not be awarded to travelers who cannot provide the necessary documents for verification.

The NT$5,000 prizes are provided either in the form of a pre-paid (E-ticket) card or a set of accommodation vouchers. These prizes are valid for up to 90 days after issuance.

You can choose an EasyCard, iPASS or iCash 2.0, all of which can be used at affiliated stores within Taiwan. The maximum single-use and daily usage limits for each type of card are outlined in the table below:

※Swipe left and right to view the complete content.

Five vouchers worth NT$1,000 each will be issued. Vouchers can only be used at participating tourist hotels that have valid tourist hotel business licenses, or hotels/homestays that have obtained valid registration certificates. Please refer to the event website for a list of participating accommodations.

發放 1,000 元 5 張，限中獎者本人使用，每張優惠券折抵一次使用，不得找零、轉售。適用於臺灣境內配合本活動且取得觀光旅館業執照之觀光旅館業或取得登記證之旅館業及民宿。

When registering for the lucky draw, the traveler is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and authenticity of the information that they supply. If a traveler is unable to participate in the event or collect a prize due to any errors, this shall be the responsibility of the traveler and not the event organizer. Any person found to be misappropriating the personal information of others or engaging in any other malfeasance shall be held liable and responsible per the applicable laws.

Incentives are available to encourage domestic travel agencies and their overseas counterparts to cooperate in welcoming more foreign tour groups to Taiwan. Such tour groups must have at least four members and stay in Taiwan at least three days and two nights. Incentive levels range from NT$5,000 to NT$50,000 per tour, depending on the number of tour group members and length of stay.

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Taiwan to pay tourists to visit

Looking for a bargain long-haul trip this year? Head to Taiwan, where plans are afoot to actually pay travelers to come over.

Taiwanese officials are looking to offer a financial incentive of 5,000 New Taiwan dollars (about $164) per traveler or NT$20,000 ($654) for group tours in a bid to help boost flagging tourist levels.

Some half a million foreign vacationgoers are set to benefit from the plan, which was designed to help the government reach its goal of 6 million visitors by year's end.

Taiwan only fully reopened its borders last October due to the COVID-19 pandemic and has subsequently failed to attract even a tenth of the number of tourists compared to years prior. As a result, officials are now spending money to make money.

How will it work?

Chang Shi-chung, director-general of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau, said the financial package will be sent digitally to a type of tourist card, ensuring all the cash will go directly back into the country's tourism sector.

"International tourists who are given NT$5,000 will not receive it until they arrive," Chang explained. "It will be stored in an electronic ticketing card, which can be used to pay for food, accommodation and other travel expenses during their time here."

Related: Taiwan's Starlux Airlines will start flying to the US in April

There's still no information on when or where these cash amounts will be handed over to travelers, just that it will be distributed via a number of "promotional events" this year.

The very fact we're writing this, and you're reading this, means, at least on the marketing side of things, Taiwan has found a smart way to tell the world that it's open for business. Whether this will translate into the 10 million tourists it hopes to snare by 2025 remains to be seen.

It's not the first Asian destination to throw money at dwindling tourist numbers either. Last month, Hong Kong revealed it was giving away half a million free airline tickets in a bid to win back visitors in a project dubbed "Hello Hong Kong."

How far will the cash amount go?

Pretty far, actually. Living costs in this part of Asia are cheaper than in many of its bigger neighbors; a weeklong escape could cost you less than the same time spent in many European destinations.

In Taiwan's capital Taipei, you can find five-star hotel rooms for about $84 per night in June for two people. Although perhaps a truer reflection of how far your dollars will go is via the "Big Mac index," which has the hallowed meat sandwich priced at $2.50 in Taiwan compared to the average cost of $6.05 in the U.S. — (junk) food for thought.

Why has Taiwan's tourism dried up?

The move comes at a time of increasing uncertainty in a travel market still suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Annual visitor numbers were around 11.8 million before the pandemic but had dwindled to just 9,000 last year.

This could have a dramatic toll on businesses, including hotels, airlines, restaurants and leisure companies throughout the country.

Another possible reason for a dwindling travel market could be escalating tensions between China and Taiwan. The tensions have prompted warnings from the U.S. to China against a possible invasion.

Just this week, 25 Chinese warplanes and three warships were spotted off Taiwan's mainland in the latest provocation to cause geopolitical ripple effects.

This doesn't mean you shouldn't visit Taiwan — far from it. The U.S. Department of State gives Taiwan a " Level 1 " travel advisory, which advises "normal precautions" for travel.

Bottom line

Let's be honest, unless you had already planned to explore this delightful corner of Asia in 2023, a $164 subsidy probably won't be enough to sway you into paying a visit when a flight could cost three or four times that.

However, if you aren't one of the half a million tourists to benefit from the campaign, you can console yourself with incredible food and scenery.

Taiwan will pay you to come visit in an effort to woo back tourists

People might be traveling again after the pandemic, but prohibitively high airfares are keeping them away from areas that used to be tourist destinations. Now, one of those is fighting back.

Taiwan will offer the U.S. equivalent of $165 to a half-million tourists, part of a multimillion-dollar program to attract visitors to the island. Visitors will have the option of receiving the money via electronic transfer or through discounts.

Tour groups of eight or more are being wooed with incentives of up to $658.

$165 might not sound like a lot, but given the strength of the U.S. dollar in Taiwan, it could stretch a fair way. The average hotel in the country costs just $67 per night , by some estimates (depending on where you stay). Meals can run for under $5 . And many attractions are free.

The incentives come after Taiwan saw less than 1 million visitors come to the country last year. Compare that to nearly 12 million in 2019, which was a record. The disparity was due to the country closing its borders until last October , as part of COVID protocols. The country has also suffered as China has not yet included it on a list of permitted destinations for tour groups.

Before you book your trip, though, it’s worth noting that the government hasn’t yet announced when the promotion will begin.

Taiwan’s not the only country in the region desperately trying to win back tourists. Hong Kong recently announced plans to give out a half-million plane tickets to the country. Those tickets will be released via a lottery in three waves, starting next month.

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Taiwan launches website to gift 500,000 tourists stored-value smartcards, hotel vouchers from May 1

In a bid to restore the flow of foreign visitors to its shores, Taiwan will in May offer digital smartcards stored with NT$5,000 (S$218) or vouchers of the same value for hotel stays to offset some travellers’ expenses.

The Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s Singapore office said on Monday that 500,000 foreign visitors will receive the vouchers or cards through a lucky draw system when they enter Taiwan at any of the four participating airports on the island starting from noon on May 1.

Tourists will have to pre-register for the draw at least one day before they arrive at either the Taoyuan or Songshan airports that serve capital Taipei, or the Taichung and Kaohsiung international airports.

According to a tourism bureau official, tourists intending to participate will receive a designated QR code after they register at 5000.taiwan.net.tw , which went live on Friday.

The QR code will serve as their lucky draw coupon, which travellers will have to scan at the airport’s arrival hall to find out if they are one of 500,000 winners.

Prize winners can then choose to receive either vouchers to offset some of their accommodation costs or a smartcard, both valued at NT$5,000.

Those who opt for the vouchers, which come in denominations of NT$1,000, can use them at more than 450 participating hotels islandwide.

The smartcards will be variants of Taiwan’s EasyCard (you you ka in Mandarin) or iPass (yi ka tong), the equivalents of Singapore’s ez-link card, that travellers can use for public transport, shopping and dining.

A spokesman for the tourism bureau said 250,000 vouchers have been allocated for 2023, leaving 150,000 more to be won in 2024 and the remaining 100,000 for 2025. The promotion will end by June 30, 2025, or when the last voucher has been given out that year.

Visitors on cruises and agency-arranged tours are not eligible for these vouchers.

Local and foreign tour agencies, however, will be able to access subsidies up to NT$50,000 (S$2,180) provided by the tourism bureau when they bring groups who stay for at least two nights in Taiwan.

Tour agency CTC Travel said in response to queries from The Straits Times on Wednesday it was looking into giving “perks” to travellers booking a Taiwan tour in the form of discounts and travel insurance, but was waiting for more concrete details on implementation from the tourism bureau.

The tourism financial incentives were approved on March 24 as part of the government’s NT$380 billion post-pandemic economic recovery package, said Taiwan’s Ministry of Transportation and Communications on April 18.

The island ushered in the first wave of revenge travellers after its post-pandemic border opening in October 2022.

Taiwan is looking to attract up to six million foreign visitors in 2023, the tourism bureau’s deputy director-general Trust Lin said in March, adding that an estimated one million visitors had arrived in the first three months of the year.

In the three years before the pandemic, Taiwan averaged about 11.2 million overseas visitors a year, but those numbers plummeted to around 1.38 million in 2020, 141,000 in 2021 and 895,000 last year, according to The Taipei Times.

Taiwan has been a popular tourist destination for travellers from Singapore, with 460,000 registered visitors to the island in 2019, before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mr Kevin Tay, 32, who spent seven days with his family on the island in December, said Taiwan is always on his list of places to visit.

“If the claim process for the vouchers is simple, I would definitely be swayed by the incentives,” said the businessman, who stayed at a resort in Hsinchu during his last trip.

Mr Joseph Cheng, director of the Taiwan Tourism Bureau’s Singapore office, said on Monday that tourism receipts in 2023 have been encouraging.

“The number of tourists to Taiwan in January and February has exceeded 50 per cent of the same period in 2019, so the overall situation is good,” he told The Straits Times.

He added that the bureau was aiming for around 230,000 visitors from Singapore in 2023, about half of 2019’s numbers.

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Taiwan is paying people to come visit

The government is also offering cash incentives to hotels to get more workers in the hospitality business.

By Sarah Gambles

If you’ve ever wanted to visit Taiwan, now might be your perfect opportunity. The Asian country is offering a cash incentive to tourists who come.

Taiwan’s government is offering $165 to up to 500,000 individual tourists to increase tourism to the island. Taiwan’s Premier Chen Chien-jen announced that the government hopes “to attract six million tourists in 2023, doubling that figure in 2024 and aiming for 10 million visitors by 2025,” CNN Travel reported.

Tour groups could receive up to $658.

“The money will be given out through multiple tourism promotion events this year, rather than giving it all out at once,” Taiwan Tourism Bureau Director-General Chang Shi-chung said, per Taipei Times . “As such, not all international tourists would receive it.“

To address hotel work shortages, the government also announced it would provide monthly cash incentives for each new staff member hired, per Taipei Times .

The announcement did not include how to apply or when the incentive would start.

Do other countries offer cash incentives to visit?

Taiwan is not the first place to offer a cash incentive to come visit. In 2021, Malta announced it would “pay each visitor who books a three-night stay directly with select three- to five-star hotels on a scaled basis,” according to Travel + Leisure .

Malta offered to pay $119 per person for every five-star booking, $89 for 4-star hotels and $60 to each visitor staying at a three-star hotel.

Hong Kong announced earlier this month it would cover airfare for 500,000 tourists.

Here’s how to apply for the free Hong Kong flights

The flight giveaways will take place in three rounds, as follows:

• March 1: Southeast Asians can apply for tickets.
• April 1: Mainland China residents can apply.
• May 1: All international tourists can apply for the tickets.
• July 1: Hong Kong residents can apply for the “make up for lost travel time” flights the government is offering to locals, according to CNN .

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Taiwan to give 500,000 tourists perks worth US$165 each to boost economy

• AseanPlus News

Thursday, 23 Feb 2023

Tourists visit a hot spring at the Thermal Valley in Taipei on Feb 22, 2023. - AFP

TAIPEI (Bloomberg): Taiwan will offer 500,000 tourists a cash or discount incentive this year as it tries to shore up its post-pandemic travel industry and boost spending.

The incentives, worth NT$5,000 (US$165) each, were announced Thursday (Feb 23) as part of a NT$5.3 billion package to attract international tourists.

While some details were not yet available, including whether there were any eligibility requirements or how people would be chosen, officials said in a statement that the money may be handed out electronically or as discounts for accommodation.

"We hope to accelerate and expand efforts for international tourists to come to Taiwan,” Lin Fu-shan, department director of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications, said at a press briefing.

The spending plan also included a proposal to offer travel agencies NT$10,000 each for groups of at least eight tourists, and NT$20,000 each for groups of at least 15 tourists.

Taiwan is looking for ways to boost its economy after removing Covid curbs last year. Growth is expected to slow in 2023 as the trade-dependent island struggles with a dropoff in exports, making it more important to spur activity through domestic demand and tourism.

Before the pandemic, tourism accounted for about 4% of Taiwan’s gross domestic product, according to Taiwan’s Tourism Bureau.

But visits came to a near-standstill as Taiwan closed its borders and implemented quarantine rules to contain the virus. Geopolitical tensions have also chilled the industry, as China banned individual tourists traveling to Taiwan in 2019, and last month left it off a list of 20 permitted destinations for Chinese tour groups.

Taiwan has taken some steps to welcome visitors, including reopening its borders to individual travelers from Hong Kong and Macau this month. The government wants to attract six million tourists this year, Transportation Minister Wang Kwo-tsai said earlier.

After reopening last October, Taiwan attracted nearly 900,000 tourists in 2022, according to a statement from Taiwan’s Transportation Ministry.

The tourism announcement was part of a larger, NT$380 billion stimulus package that was approved via a special act by lawmakers this week. Lawmakers still need to sign off on where all of the funds are used specifically.

Other parts of that plan - paid for using surplus tax revenue - include allocating funds for use by the state-owned Taiwan Power Company and health insurance system.

That broader package has been in the works for a while, but Thursday was the first time officials detailed several of the specifics, including the plan for tourists. Officials are expected to release more details in the afternoon.

Taiwan’s campaign comes as others in the region also roll out initiatives to attract tourists. The "Hello Hong Kong” campaign, for example, involves giving out 500,000 air tickets among other perks.

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Paid to travel? Taiwan may pay international tourists to visit soon

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

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Editor’s note: An earlier version of this story said the payment to international tourists has been approved. This has been corrected.

MANILA, Philippines – Revenge travel season doesn’t get any better than this! Taiwan’s government is considering the tourism bureau’s plans to provide monetary allowances to international tourists, as reported by Taipei Times on February 23.

The proposal is an allowance of NT$5,000 per person (approximately P9,000) will be given to 500,000 tourists when they travel to the country, as a way to boost Taiwan’s tourism.

Additionally, those traveling in groups can also receive cash incentives from the government. Groups of 8 to 14 tourists can receive NT$10,000 (around P17,900), and groups with more members can receive NT$20,000 (around P35,800). Up to 90,000 groups can enjoy the allowances.

Tourists chosen to have allowances will receive the amount upon arriving in Taiwan. Tourism Bureau Director-General Chang Shi-chung explained that the stipend will be provided digitally.

“It will be stored in an electronic ticketing card, which can be used to pay for food, accommodation, and other travel expenses during their time here,” Chang said.

Chang noted that the money will not be given all at once to travelers but will be distributed throughout multiple tourism promotion events.  

The bureau’s plans are in line with Taiwan’s goal of boosting tourism, with a target of welcoming 6 million international visitors in 2023. The program has an allocated budget of NT$5.3 billion (P9.5 billion). The bureau is primarily targeting to attract tourists from Japan, South Korea, Europe, and North America. 

Filipinos are also qualified to receive the incentives as the program covers countries under Taiwan’s New Southbound Policy. Other eligible countries include Australia, Malaysia, Vietnam, and many more. 

On Friday afternoon, March 3, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines told Rappler that as of this writing, the proposal was still under review and has not been finalized yet. The official guidelines will be posted on its official website once confirmed. – with reports from Charlene Enriquez/Rappler.com

Charlene Enriquez is a Rappler intern.

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Did You Know Taiwan’s Giving 500,000 Tourists S$220 Incentives Each?

• unicornfloof

Anyone up to travel to Taiwan? Because we hear they’re giving 500,000 tourists S$220 incentives each! Find out all about it here 👇

Planning to travel to Taiwan soon? If so, you’re in luck! Taiwan’s government has just recently announced an exciting new initiative for foreign tourists and we think it’s a pretty sweet deal! We’re talking about giving 500,000 tourists S$220 incentives each !

💜 Stay Up To Date: –  Win Free Cathay Pacific Tickets To Hong Kong! –  YouTrip Hacks: 10 Tips To Save Money In Thailand –  Battle Of The Booking Platforms: Expedia Vs Booking.com Vs Agoda Vs Trip.com

Wait, Hold Up. S$220 incentives?

Image credits: Unsplash

That’s right, Taiwan is offering international travellers a NT$5,000 or S$220 incentive as part of its NT$5.3 billion package to boost tourism. According to TVBS , the incentives will be awarded to 500,000 lucky tourists after the country has fully reopened its borders to Hong Kong and Macau citizens as part of its NT$380 billion post-pandemic stimulus bill. 

The country hopes to draw in as many as six million foreign tourists annually since it lifted its borders, as the number of Taiwanese citizens travelling overseas has far exceeded the number of inbound travellers. According to the Straits Times , tourism accounted for 4% of the country’s gross domestic product before the pandemic. This came to a standstill when Taiwan closed its borders and implemented strict quarantine rules to contain the virus.

In an effort to speed up the rejuvenation of its tourism industry, the package will also be awarding travel agencies subsidies of up to NT$20,000 or S$880 for every tour group they bring to Taiwan. While this grand package has been in the works for a while, officials have reported that more time is needed to properly implement the incentives.

Did You Know Taiwan’s Giving 500,000 Tourists S$220 Incentives Each?: For more info on the Hello Hong Kong Campaign, click here

How To Qualify?

Image credits: Taiwan News

According to the Taipei Times , Tourism Bureau Director-General Chang Shi-Chung has stated that not all international tourists will receive this benefit as the money will be distributed through multiple tourism promotion events this year.

Additionally, he stated that eligible tourists would only receive the incentive when they arrive in Taiwan which will be stored in an electronic ticketing card that can be used to pay for food, accommodation, and other travel expenses. 

While there is not much information with regard to the eligibility criteria, it has been confirmed that the Tourism Bureau is planning to focus on attracting tourists from 18 countries defined in its most recent policy. These countries include Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Pakistan, the Phillippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.

Regarding travel agency subsidies, domestic and international agencies will be eligible to receive a subsidy of NT$10,000 or S$440 for every tour group consisting of 8 to 14 travellers visiting Taiwan. To receive the NT$20,000 or $880 subsidy , each tour group must consist of more than 14 international travellers . 

More details on the eligibility criteria and payout dates will be announced in this article, so stay tuned for more updates!

Did You Know Taiwan’s Giving 500,000 Tourists S$220 Incentives Each? : Find out more if you still need Covid’19 coverage for your travel insurance here

Need An Itinerary For Taiwan? We’ve Got You!

A hidden gem in Asia, Taiwan is often overlooked by travellers when in fact, it has so much to offer. From stunning natural scenery to vibrant cities with rich cultural experiences, Taiwan has something for everyone ranging from solo travellers and couples looking for a romantic getaway to families seeking adventure.

🌲 For adventurous nature lovers:

For the adventurous who prefer a non-basic experience, why not try your hand at trekking up Taiwan’s tallest dormant volcano in Yangminshan National Park ? With the hustle and bustle of fast-paced city life, taking some time to yourself and hiking through one of Taiwan’s 9 national parks will alleviate some of that stress. Coming in at around 1120 metres above sea level, the journey up to Qixing Shan or Shichisei Mountain (Seven Star Mountain), will allow you to witness its many sulphur deposits, fumaroles, and hot spring pools. 

If you prefer to be near the ocean, this is a great chance to take a trip down to Turtle Island or Guishan Island for whale watching ! Shaped like a turtle, the island is the only active volcano in Taiwan with its surrounding waters attracting all sorts of migrating marine life during the months of May to October. Before you dive head first into visiting the island, do note that Turtle Island is only open to the public from March to November every day of the week except Wednesdays. 

Although the country is bustling with life, you can get to experience the tranquillity of the high-mountain countryside in Nantou County’s very own Qingjing Farm . Known as Little Europe, the farm offers lush greenery as you watch thrilling horse-riding shows and interact with fluffy free-roaming sheep. You can even get to feed various farm animals, including horses, sheep, alpacas, and llamas for a fee!

🥟 For the foodies:

For our food critics, head down to the country’s busy night markets for a gastronomic adventure! Try your hand at the infamous stinky tofu at Dai’s House of Stinky Tofu , and decide for yourself if this local delicacy is a hit or miss. For a more modern twist, head to Shenkeng Old Street for a taste of Grilled Stinky Tofu stuffed with vegetables and meat or Stinky Mala Tofu stewed with Duck’s Blood and Pig’s Blood Cake. 

If you’re looking for something to warm you up during the rainy season, head down to Chen Ji Mee Sua in Taipei for a hot bowl of intestine vermicelli . Like the Taiwanese Oyster Vermicelli, the dish is made from wheat noodles and topped with bonito flakes, black vinegar, cilantro, and chilli sauce. Braised chunks of pork intestines give the dish a major protein boost and some might even say it tastes better than its oyster counterpart. 

Before leaving Taiwan, most locals would definitely recommend tourists try this local dish — duck tongue! Packed with flavour, duck tongue is often served braised in soy sauce or deep-fried in night markets. With a similar texture to chicken feet, most foodies would describe the delicacy as an ‘experience that they would not go out of their way to eat again. While that’s not the most encouraging review, you can decide if your relationship with duck tongue is one of love or hate at Lau Tien Lu Lu-Wei at the popular Ximending district ! 

Did You Know Taiwan’s Giving 500,000 Tourists S$220 Incentives Each? : Check out our guide for other ways you can score cheaper flights here

Discover The Beauty Of Taiwan!

Now that you’re all caught up, time to start planning your trip to Taiwan and dig in on those Taiwan night market craves! And while you’re at it, don’t forget to bring along your YouTrip Card and make use of our wholesale exchange rates!

As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with promo code < YTBLOG5 > for free S$5 credits in your account! Then, head over to our  YouTrip Perks  page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret. For more great tips and articles like this, join our  Telegram  (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our  free weekly newsletter here  or down below.  

And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad ? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! 💜

Safe Travels!

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Taiwan is selling more to the US than China in major shift away from Beijing

A worker walks past the logo of the factory of King Yuan Electronics Co. after work in Miaoli County, western Taiwan, May 9, 2024. In late April 2024, King Yuan Electronics Corp., a Taiwanese company specializing in semiconductor testing and packaging, said it was ending its two-decade-long run in mainland China by selling off its entire stake, worth $670 million, in its venture in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying)

A worker leaves the factory of King Yuan Electronics Co., after work in Hsinchu City, Northwest Taiwan, May 9, 2024. In late April 2024, King Yuan Electronics Corp., a Taiwanese company specializing in semiconductor testing and packaging, said it was ending its two-decade-long run in mainland China by selling off its entire stake, worth $670 million, in its venture in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying)

Trucks move in and out of the factory of King Yuan Electronics Co. in Miaoli County, western Taiwan, May 9, 2024. In late April 2024, King Yuan Electronics Corp., a Taiwanese company specializing in semiconductor testing and packaging, said it was ending its two-decade-long run in mainland China by selling off its entire stake, worth $670 million, in its venture in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying)

This photo shows the logo of the King Yuan Electronics Co. in Miaoli County, western Taiwan, May 9, 2024. In late April 2024, King Yuan Electronics Corp., a Taiwanese company specializing in semiconductor testing and packaging, said it was ending its two-decade-long run in mainland China by selling off its entire stake, worth $670 million, in its venture in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying)

Workers leave the factory of King Yuan Electronics Co., after work in Miaoli County, western Taiwan, May 9, 2024. In late April 2024, King Yuan Electronics Corp., a Taiwanese company specializing in semiconductor testing and packaging, said it was ending its two-decade-long run in mainland China by selling off its entire stake, worth $670 million, in its venture in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying)

FILE - Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company founder Morris Chang speaks at the new facility in Phoenix, Dec. 6, 2022. In early April 2024, Taiwan’s TSMC, the world’s biggest computer chip maker, announced it would expand its U.S. investments to $65 billion after the Biden administration pledged up to $6.6 billion in incentives that would put Arizona on track to produce about one fifth of the world’s most advanced chips by 2030.(AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)

FILE - President Joe Biden speaks about his economic agenda after touring the building site for a new computer chip plant for Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, Dec. 6, 2022, in Phoenix. In early April 2024, Taiwan’s TSMC, the world’s biggest computer chip maker, announced it would expand its U.S. investments to $65 billion after the Biden administration pledged up to $6.6 billion in incentives that would put Arizona on track to produce about one fifth of the world’s most advanced chips by 2030. (AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, File)

FILE - This photo shows the logo of TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) during the Taiwan Innotech Expo at the World Trade Center in Taipei, Taiwan, Oct. 14, 2022. Taiwan is reducing its reliance on the Chinese mainland as it seeks to insulate itself from pressure from Beijing while forging closer economic and trade ties with the United States. (AP Photo/Chiang Ying-ying, File)

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WASHINGTON (AP) — Whether it’s tapioca balls or computer chips, Taiwan is stretching toward the United States and away from China — the world’s No. 2 economy that threatens to take the democratically ruled island by force if necessary.

That has translated to the world’s biggest maker of computer chips — which power everything from medical equipment to cellphones — announcing bigger investments in the U.S. last month after a boost from the Biden administration . Soon afterward, a Taiwanese semiconductor company said it was ending its two-decade-long run in mainland China amid a global race to gain the edge in the high-tech industry.

These changes at a time of an intensifying China-U.S. rivalry reflect Taiwan’s efforts to reduce its reliance on Beijing and insulate itself from Chinese pressure while forging closer economic and trade ties with the United States, its strongest ally. The shift also is taking place as China’s economic growth has been weak and global businesses are looking to diversify following supply chain disruptions during the pandemic.

In a stark illustration of the shift, the U.S. displaced mainland China as the top destination for Taiwan’s exports in the first quarter of the year for the first time since the start of 2016, when comparable data became available. The island exported $24.6 billion worth of goods to the U.S. in the first three months, compared with $22.4 billion to mainland China, according to Taiwan’s official data.

Meanwhile, the island’s investments in mainland China have fallen to the lowest level in more than 20 years, dropping nearly 40% to $3 billion last year from a year earlier, according to Taiwan’s Ministry of Economic Affairs. Yet, Taiwan’s investments in the U.S. surged ninefold to $9.6 billion in 2023.

Washington and Taipei signed a trade agreement last year, and they’re now negotiating the next phase. U.S. lawmakers also have introduced a bill to end double taxes for Taiwanese businesses and workers in the U.S.

“Everything is motivated by ... a desire to build Taiwan’s deterrent capability and their resilience, all in support of maintaining the status quo and deterring China from being tempted to take ... action against Taiwan,” Assistant Secretary of State Daniel Kritenbrink said.

The world’s biggest computer chip maker, TSMC, announced last month that it would expand its U.S. investments to $65 billion. That came after the Biden administration pledged up to $6.6 billion in incentives that would put the company’s facilities in Arizona on track to produce about one-fifth of the world’s most advanced chips by 2030.

Apart from its U.S. investments, TSMC is putting money into Japan , a staunch U.S. supporter in the region. Foxconn, a Taiwanese conglomerate known for being Apple’s main contractor, is building manufacturing capacity in India, while Pegatron, another Taiwan business that makes parts of iPhones and computers, is investing in Vietnam.

King Yuan Electronics Corp., a Taiwanese company specializing in semiconductor testing and packaging, said last month that it would sell off its $670 million stake in a venture in the eastern Chinese city of Suzhou. KYEC cited geopolitics, the U.S. export ban on advanced chips to China and Beijing’s policy of seeking self-sufficiency in the technology.

“The ecological environment of semiconductor manufacturing in China has changed, and the market competition has become increasingly severe,” KYEC said in a statement.

Exports of semiconductors, electronic components and computer equipment from Taiwan to the U.S. more than tripled from 2018 to reach nearly $37 billion last year. It’s not just tech: The island more than tripled exports of tapioca and its substitute, key ingredients in boba milk tea, to the U.S. between 2018 and 2023 and is shipping more fruits, tree nuts and farmed fish.

The recent trade data reflect “the strategy from both Taiwan and the U.S. to reorient that trade in an effort to de-risk from China,” said Hung Tran, a nonresident senior fellow with the Atlantic Council’s GeoEconomics Center.

The share of Taiwan’s exports to mainland China and Hong Kong fell from about 44% in 2020 to less than one-third in the first quarter of 2024. That was “a very big movement,” Tran said. “And I think that the share (of exports to mainland China and Hong Kong) will probably continue to decline.”

Since the 1990s, Beijing has tried to balance its claim over the island with favorable economic and trade policies, aiming to foster closer ties that could make it harder for Taiwan to break away.

When the independent-leaning Democratic Progressive Party gained power in Taiwan in 2016, the new government put forward a policy to distance the island from the mainland and boost economic ties with other countries in the region, especially in Southeast Asia. Unhappy Beijing turned to its economic leverage to try to bring Taiwan to heel.

It has restricted travel by mainland tourists to the island and suspended imports of Taiwanese seafood, fruits and snacks. In 2021, China banned Taiwan-grown pineapples over biosecurity concerns, devastating Taiwanese farmers whose exported fruit nearly all went to the mainland.

Ralph Cossa, president emeritus of the Honolulu-based foreign policy research institute Pacific Forum, said Beijing’s actions have helped push the island away.

Chinese President “Xi Jinping is tactically clever but strategically foolish in many of the decisions he has made; his loyalty tests on Taiwan businessmen and other heavy-handed business practices and decisions have been a major contributor to the success of Taiwan’s” policy to distance itself from China, he said.

And that policy will continue with Lai Ching-te, the island’s new president , Cossa said.

AP data reporter Aaron Kessler in Washington and videojournalist Johnson Lai in Taipei contributed.

Kinda Frugal

13 Destinations That You Can Travel for Less Than $1000

Posted: March 23, 2024 | Last updated: March 23, 2024

Fret not if you’re yearning for an adventure, but your budget seems to be holding you back. Traveling the world on a shoestring budget is more feasible than you think. With a keen eye for deals and the right destinations, you can satisfy your wanderlust for under $1000.

This guide will introduce you to 14 destinations, allowing you to dive into new cultures, savor local cuisines, and marvel at breathtaking landscapes without worrying about a dwindling bank account. From the sunny beaches of Central America to the historic streets of the Balkans, get ready to explore the world’s treasures affordably. 

Let’s discover how far your dollar can take you, opening doors to experiences you’ve only dreamed of without compromising on the thrill of travel.

Taiwan, a Southeast Asian gem, gives an incredible, less expensive travel experience, especially appealing to budget-conscious adventurers from the U.S. and Canada. Despite its complex political relationship with China, Taiwan seeks to strengthen its economy through tourism, welcoming international traffic with open arms and unbeatable low costs.

Once you’ve landed, a daily budget of $40 is more than enough to revel in what this colorful island has to offer. From tantalizing street meals to breathtaking landscapes, Taiwan packs a punch without putting a hole in your pocket. 

However, while the island is a cheap paradise, its strict immigration rules mean you can not stay beyond three months without a visa. If you want to stay longer, just take a quick weekend trip to Hong Kong. Taiwan’s charm isn’t always just in its affordability but also in its wealthy culture and warm hospitality.

Traveling to Iceland can be surprisingly affordable, particularly if you’re off the U.S. or Canada’s east coast. The country’s stunning landscapes and unique vistas offer an unparalleled experience that becomes richer with every step you take. The journey to Iceland might not set you back as much as you’d think, with flights potentially as low as $200, depending on your timing and departure airport.

Once you arrive, Iceland continues to impress with its cost-effectiveness. Food expenses are notably low, and the country’s most mesmerizing sights remain untouched by the commercialization that affects many other tourist destinations. Iceland proves that an extraordinary adventure doesn’t have to come with a remarkable price tag.

Traveling to Peru offers an exceptional opportunity to explore for under $1,000, blending the allure of rural beauty with the vibrant culture of its capital, Lima. Renowned for its lively music scene, Lima provides affordable luxury with hotels under $60 a night. Beyond the urban excitement, Peru’s heart lies in its vast countryside, home to spectacular yet accessible attractions like Machu Picchu and the Colca Canyon.

Unlike the crowded tourist spots of Europe, Peru’s wonders remain pristine and serene, offering a unique escape into nature. The primary expense for visitors is the flight, which can potentially reach up to $475. However, the overall cost of living and travel within Peru remains low, making it a budget-friendly destination.

4. Nicaragua

Nicaragua’s image on the global stage, influenced by historical political tensions and remarks like those from Ronald Reagan, has impacted its tourism industry. Despite this, the country remains an affordable destination for travelers, offering low-cost flights from both the east and west coasts of the United States and Canada. Accommodation in Nicaragua is surprisingly economical, with hotel rates not exceeding $70 per night, except for those directly on the beach.

This affordability extends to exploring Nicaragua’s natural and cultural attractions, such as the serene Apoyo Lagoon, the picturesque Corn Islands, and the historic Our Lady of Grace Cathedral, making it a budget-friendly option for tourists.

Curacao, a lesser-known Caribbean gem, offers an affordable island paradise experience. Once a pivotal location in the Dutch slave trade, it now invites tourists to its shores with its rich history and stunning landscapes. Flights from the U.S. and Canada are reasonably priced, averaging around $360.

Visitors can enjoy luxurious yet affordable beachfront resorts for under $70 a night, minimizing the need for additional spending on activities. Beyond beach relaxation, Curacao boasts attractions like the Klein Lighthouse and the Curacao Maritime Museum, making it an enticing destination for those looking to explore beyond the typical Caribbean vacation spots .

6. Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is a budget-friendly Caribbean destination due to its proximity to the U.S. and Canada and lower living costs. Travelers from the northeast coast of the U.S. can find round-trip flights ranging from $370 to $400, with prices dropping for those closer to the south. Accommodation on the island is remarkably affordable, with hotel rates capped at $70 per night.

Moreover, the country’s major attractions, such as Bavaro Beach, Catalina Island, and Los Haitises National Park, offer enriching experiences at minimal expense, making the Dominican Republic an attractive option for cost-conscious travelers seeking tropical escapades.

Japan, a tourist destination, maintains affordable travel options thanks to the government’s investment in infrastructure and the tourism sector. While a week-long trip from the east coast of the U.S. or Canada might exceed $1,000, travelers from the West Coast enjoy lower airfare, with round-trip flights averaging around $575.

Japan offers numerous paid attractions, so visitors should budget for these experiences.  Tokyo, in particular, stands out for its unique culture and has been ranked highly as a tourist city. Efforts to increase hotel availability in the capital have made accommodations more accessible, contributing to a more affordable travel experience in Japan.

Brazil stands out as a must-visit destination in South America, boasting stunning beauty and a well-developed tourist infrastructure that makes exploring the country easy and affordable. Particularly in Rio de Janeiro, visitors can find quality hotel accommodations for around $40, with even more economical options like hostels available.

The Brazilian government has invested significantly in the tourism sector over the past two decades, enhancing the country’s appeal. While some areas face safety concerns, Brazil’s vastness offers diverse experiences across its different regions. For U.S. travelers, flights to Brazil typically range between $500 and $700, making it an attractive option for an international getaway.

Guyana, a hidden gem in South America, offers an authentic and budget-friendly travel experience. With its lack of overcrowding and commercialization, visitors can enjoy the country’s natural and cultural sights leisurely. Accommodation in Georgetown, the capital, is reasonably priced around $75, with costs dropping in rural areas. The country is celebrated for its delicious cuisine, considered some of the best in the southern hemisphere.

Affordable flights from NYC to Georgetown hover around $350. Attractions like Mount Roraima, Kaieteur Falls, and the Iwokrama Forest are must-sees. Many are accessible free of charge, further reducing travel expenses. Guyana’s extensive coastline and vibrant city life in Georgetown offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Despite facing economic and infrastructural challenges, Belize remains a stunningly beautiful destination in Central America. Bordered by the Caribbean Sea, its breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and distinctive culture offer a captivating vacation experience. The country’s history of Spanish colonization has left a lasting impact, contributing to its current struggles with poverty, high crime rates , and underdevelopment post-independence.

Yet, Belize’s beauty and cultural richness continue to shine, making it an appealing choice for travelers seeking natural beauty and a glimpse into a unique cultural heritage amidst the challenges of gracefully maturing.

11. Ireland

Traveling to Ireland from the east coast, particularly from Boston, is surprisingly affordable thanks to Aer Lingus, with round-trip flights as low as $300. Although Dublin presents higher costs than major U.S. cities, venturing to the western coast, like Galway, reveals more budget-friendly accommodation options.

Dining out may increase expenses, especially with the added cost of drinks, but careful spending can keep overall costs manageable. Transportation across Ireland is economical, with accessible Uber and Lyft services in major cities and comprehensive bus routes. The small size of Ireland, allowing coast-to-coast travel in under four hours, further facilitates an affordable and convenient exploration.

Aruba, a coveted Caribbean destination, offers an affordable vacation option, challenging the notion that only less developed countries can be budget-friendly. As part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Aruba benefits economically, making it more accessible than expected. Its proximity to the U.S. significantly reduces flight costs, with prices as low as $200 from Miami despite being higher from New York.

While hotel prices on the island are higher, the natural allure of Aruba’s beaches minimizes the need for extensive spending, presenting an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Traveling to Sweden from the east coast of North America is notably affordable, with flight prices starting as low as $220 and a round trip for possibly $440. Although expenses rise upon arrival, smart accommodation choices can secure hotels under $65 per night.

This budgeting allows visitors to indulge in Swedish delicacies such as meatballs and pickled herring. A must-visit is Gamla Stan, a bustling market and chateau beloved by both tourists and locals for its dining, shopping, and leisure opportunities. Sweden thus presents an appealing option for those seeking an affordable European adventure with a taste of local culture.

Amazing Destinations Done Cheaply

Embark on a journey to 14 dazzling destinations without breaking the bank ! From the serene beaches of Aruba to the historic streets of Sweden, explore the world’s hidden gems for less than $1000. Dive into diverse cultures, savor local cuisines, and create memories that last a lifetime. Travel smart, spend less, and discover more – your budget-friendly adventure awaits!

17 Affordable Cities in Europe That Will Keep Your Budget Light

Are you dreaming of a European getaway but worried your wallet might disagree? Fear not, travel enthusiast! Europe is brimming with affordable cities just waiting to be explored. From Portugal’s cobblestone streets to Hungary’s vibrant landscapes, there’s a budget-friendly destination for every kind of traveler.

24 Cheapest Countries to Visit on Your Next Adventure

Finding an excellent place to travel can be challenging, especially when we consider the prices of flights, accommodations, and food. For many people who enjoy traveling, there cannot be a better way to travel than visiting some of the cheapest countries in the world. These countries will be easy on your wallet and offer many great adventures.

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For two years, Chinese backing for Russia’s war in Ukraine has been western governments’ biggest concern about the two countries’ burgeoning relationship. But two weeks ago, US officials raised alarm over their co-operation in another key security theatre: the seas around Taiwan.

“We see them, China and Russia, for the first time exercising together in relation to Taiwan,” Avril Haines, director of national intelligence, told US lawmakers. “[We are] recognising that this is a place where China definitely wants Russia to be working with them, and we see no reason why they wouldn’t.”

The US has had to adapt to closer co-operation between the Chinese and Russian militaries, Jeffrey Kruse, director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, told the same Senate hearing.

Even if Russian and Chinese forces were not capable of seamlessly operating together, “they would certainly be co-operative, and we need to take that into account in our force structure and planning”, Kruse said. “We are in the middle of that revision today.”

Their comments reflect how deep the military relationship has become under Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin, who are meeting this week in Beijing .

Military ties have developed to span closer joint exercises and co-operation on missile defence. And while Russia and China do not have a mutual defence treaty, as the US does with its allies, analysts believe that does not preclude military co-operation with significant global impact.

“They don’t have to physically fight together to be effective in the warfighting sense,” Oriana Skylar Mastro, a professor at the Freeman Spogli Institute for International Studies at Stanford University, said in a study on Russian-Chinese military alignment published last month.

The joint training that Russian and Chinese forces have been conducting for almost 20 years has significantly deepened since 2018. They participate in each other’s national strategic drills and conduct regular naval exercises and strategic bomber patrols together.

Most joint naval and air activity has been happening close to Japan, where strategists have been watching their two neighbours’ growing military alignment with unease.

Russia might “take supportive military actions in co-ordination with China’s Taiwan operations”, Yoji Koda, a former commander of Japan’s Self Defense Fleet, said in a chapter of an upcoming book. Japan should be prepared to contain the Russian fleet in the Sea of Japan by blocking strategic straits, he added.

The clearest evidence for a Taiwan connection can be found in joint drills such as Northern Interaction 2023, air and naval exercises built on Russia’s sobering experience in Ukraine, where its Black Sea fleet was hit by Ukrainian coastal defence missiles.

Ukraine’s success in sinking Russian warships from the shore was a textbook example of “controlling the sea from land”, said Lin Ying-yu, an expert on China’s People’s Liberation Army at Tamkang University in Taipei, pointing to Harpoon coastal defence missiles that Taiwan is getting from the US and its own anti-ship missiles. “It is exactly the situation Chinese forces would be facing in a Taiwan invasion . . . the PLA needs to learn from the Russians’ operational experience.”

Alexey Muraviev, a professor of national security and strategic studies at Curtin University in Perth, argued that Russia and China were well on the way towards building the communications structures needed for fighting side by side.

They have started sharing sensitive data such as maximum speeds of aircraft, “something you can only do with a formal ally under normal circumstances”, Muraviev said. He added that the exchange of operational data, likely to be occurring during patrols in which Russian and Chinese nuclear-capable bombers fly together near Japan, also suggested “strategic intimacy”.

Video description

Russian and Chinese naval forces carry out exercises in the Sea of Japan in 2023

According to China’s defence ministry, the two navies use a dedicated joint command and control system in combined exercises. Last year, Chinese and Russian admirals started commanding naval drills together aboard a PLA Navy destroyer. They have also switched from using Russian as the language of co-ordination to real-time communication through interpreters on ships on both sides.

Many western analysts believe the two militaries still have only rudimentary interoperability and argue their joint exercises do not reflect plans to fight together.

But even if that assessment is accurate, Russian support could give the PLA a crucial advantage in a potential conflict with the US.

The most critical factor could be Russian technology transfer for a missile defence early warning system, confirmed by Putin himself in 2019. Since then, there has been little public detail on progress apart from a statement on a contract awarded to a Russian supplier. But Chinese military scholars said joint work on a “missile shield” was ongoing.

If Moscow and Beijing integrate their missile defence systems, sensors on northern Russian territory could give China earlier warning of US intercontinental ballistic missiles, which have to traverse that territory to hit China, said Mastro at Stanford.

Asian defence officials said a joint early warning system would also allow China to launch nuclear weapons upon receiving warning of an impending nuclear strike. That would mark a shift from its strategy of using nuclear weapons only in retaliation against a strike that has already occurred — a change that nuclear experts believe Beijing has long contemplated.

An effective Chinese ballistic missile early warning system would “allow China to adopt a launch-on-warning posture for its strategic nuclear forces, further strengthening China’s deterrence posture”, said Paul Schwartz, an expert on the Russian military at CNA, a Washington defence think-tank, in a paper published in 2021.

However, Chinese technological advances mean advanced Russian weaponry is losing its sheen for Beijing, according to a source close to Russia’s defence ministry.

“China still has interest in some Russian aviation technologies used in the last generation of Russian fighters, as well as importing Soviet-model aircraft engines, because China’s own production is still lagging behind. But these are the final contracts, and in a few years Chinese interest will fall away here, too,” the person said.

“Now it’s more that Russia’s military is interested in advanced Chinese weapons systems and military technology, but there’s not been much progress here,” they added.

Beyond technology, Russia’s importance as a supplier for Beijing would increase significantly if China fought a war over Taiwan, according to Andrea Kendall-Taylor, director of the transatlantic security programme at the Center for a New American Security, a Washington think-tank.

Overland shipments of energy, food and military goods from Russia could greatly blunt the effect of a US naval blockade on China.

Russia would probably not fight alongside China but take a similar stance to Beijing’s on Ukraine, offering political support as well as economic and military resources to help it withstand US pressure, Kendall-Taylor added.

She said that given how the war in Ukraine has played out, “Russia’s going to look very hard for ways in which it can aid China’s effort militarily without being directly involved in the war in an effort to maximise cost for the US”.

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