TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) said Friday that Taiwan aims to attract 10 million international visitors and generate more than NT$1 trillion (US$31.5 billion) in tourism revenue annually by 2030.
Speaking at the opening of the Taiwan Culinary Exhibition, Lai said food is an important part of Taiwan’s culture and a powerful way to promote tourism. Taiwan received 8.6 million international visitors last year, and arrivals are expected to continue rising this year, CNA reported.
Lai said Taiwan’s scenery, culture, hospitality, and food could help the tourism industry reach its 2030 targets. The government is also promoting six walking routes through its Twalk tourism program to encourage visitors to explore local communities on foot.
Major international business events could also support tourism growth, Lai said. He cited Computex Taipei, which attracts overseas professionals each year, and encouraged visitors to extend their stays to try local food, walk trails, and experience Taiwan’s culture.
Lai said food could also help strengthen ties with other countries. During Paraguayan President Santiago Pena’s recent visit, Lai took him sightseeing in Tainan and invited him to try local dishes at a well-known restaurant.
Transport Minister Chen Shih-kai (陳世凱) said every region of Taiwan has its own food attractions. These local specialties encourage travelers to visit different areas and spend money in nearby communities, he said.
Taiwan recorded 18 million hotel and guesthouse stays during the first quarter, Chen said. Domestic travelers accounted for 13 million stays, while stays by international visitors also continued to increase.
The exhibition runs from Friday through Monday at Taipei World Trade Center Hall 1. The event features food, ingredients, and culinary traditions from across Taiwan.
