The New Southbound Policy and Taiwan’s Think Tank Diplomacy under Tsai Ing-Wen’s Presidency

The Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation (TAEF) is a leading think tank dedicated to enhancing Taiwan’s global presence through the New Southbound Policy (NSP). By fostering deeper engagement with Southeast Asia, South Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, TAEF plays a crucial role in advancing New Southbound Policy+ (NSP+), leveraging research-driven, evidence-based analysis to inform strategic decision-making. At the forefront of these efforts is Dr Alan Hao Yang, a Professor of Southeast Asian Studies at the Graduate Institute of East Asian Studies (GIEAS), National Chengchi University (NCCU) and Executive Director of TAEF. His research on Southeast Asia and the NSP is instrumental in shaping Taiwan’s regional outreach and policy initiatives. Under his leadership, TAEF serves as a critical platform for bilateral and multilateral exchanges, strengthening Taiwan’s cooperation with its Asian partners and reinforcing think tank diplomacy as a means of expanding Taiwan’s international presence. Dr Yang emphasises the collaborative role of think tanks and scholars in broadening Taiwan’s global standing. His expertise in international relations and Southeast Asian studies was nurtured under the mentorship of Professor Hsin-Huang Michael Hsiao, Chairman of the Center for Southeast Asian Studies at NCCU and TAEF. A highly regarded scholar in sociology and Southeast Asian studies, Dr Hsiao has significantly influenced Taiwan’s engagement with the region. As Executive Director of TAEF, Dr Yang is actively involved in policy advocacy, research initiatives, and international collaboration, driving forward the implementation of the NSP. A key achievement under his leadership is the organisation of Taiwan’s premier foreign policy forum, the annual Yushan Forum, which serves as a strategic platform for regional dialogue and cooperation. Through these initiatives, TAEF continues to be a driving force in shaping Taiwan’s foreign relations and strengthening its ties across Asia.