TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan’s Indigenous population reached 629,000 in 2025, according to the Ministry of the Interior.

This was a 2.9% increase from 2024, per CNA. The Amis recorded 235,000 members, the Paiwan reported 114,000, and the Atayal had 103,000.

Together, the three groups make up 72% of the total Indigenous population. All tribes have shown population growth, MOI said.

By city and county, Hualien County has the largest Indigenous population with 95,000 people, followed by Taoyuan City with 90,000, and Taitung County with 79,340.

In 2025, the median age of the Indigenous population was 34.9 years, meaning half the population was younger than 34.9, according to MOI. The Indigenous dependency ratio, which measures the burden on the working-age population from non-working dependent individuals, was 44.2, lower than the overall national ratio of 46.1.

The 16 officially recognized tribes are: Amis, Atayal, Paiwan, Bunun, Puyuma, Rukai, Tsou, Saisiyat, Yami (Tao), Thao, Kavalan, Truku, Sakizaya, Seediq, Hla’alua, and Kanakanavu. The 10 widely recognized Plains Indigenous groups are: Ketagalan, Taokas, Pazeh, Papora, Babuza, Hoanya, Siraya, Makatao, Kahabu and Taivoan.

Since the implementation of the Plains Indigenous Peoples Status Act last year, registration of Plains Indigenous status requires each Plains Indigenous tribe to first apply to the Council of Indigenous Peoples for official recognition. At present, all but the Hoanya have submitted applications, MOI said.