American Institute in Taiwan

Governor Christine Gregoire will lead a delegation of more than 70 Washington State business executives to Taipei October 19-22, 2006.  While she is here, Governor Gregoire will help open trade doors for companies, meet with key leaders to improve conditions for business, and further trade, tourism, investment, education and cultural relations between Washington and Taiwan.

The mission will open doors for new investment in Washington.  Governor Gregoire will establish relationships with companies interested in opening US facilities, and strengthen existing relationships with companies now operating in Washington.  

Delegates will have opportunities to participate in industry-specific events in agriculture, business, education and tourism, many of them supported by and in cooperation with AIT.

Agriculture delegates will promote a variety of Washington products, including wine, beef, potatoes, apples, pears and processed foods, through in-store promotions, receptions and restaurant promotions. 

Education members include 13 Washington universities and colleges.  Delegates involved in education will help Washington institutions recruit students and establish partnerships with schools in Taiwan.  There will be an education seminar, education fair, matchmaking meetings, and networking reception.

Members of the tourism industry will meet one-on-one with tour operators, and hear from in-country experts about consumer travel trends and how to promote Washington destinations that are attractive to Taiwanese travelers.

Why Taiwan?

Washington exports to Taiwan totaled US$3.1 billion in 2005, a 45 percent increase from 2004.

Taiwan is the state's third-largest agricultural export market.  More than US$830 million in apples, cherries, potatoes, wheat, wine and processed foods were exported to Taiwan in 2005.

Taiwan is an excellent source of investment for Washington organizations.

Tentative Itinerary in Taiwan

Thursday, October 19 - Arrive in Taipei (Business Meetings) Friday, October 20 - Taipei (Meetings with Businesses and Taiwan Agencies) Saturday, October 21 - Taipei (Oh America Education Fair) Saturday, October 21 or Sunday, October 22 - Depart for Seattle

On Saturday, October 21st, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., Governor Gregoire will hold a press conference at the Grand Hyatt Taipei to brief members of the press.  Members of the media who wish to attend this briefing should please contact Irene Tsai for reservations and details.

Irene Tsai Representative, State of Washington Taiwan Office Tel: 02-8789-8855 Email: AIM.Taipei@msa.hinet.net