#Taiwan #Taipei #circular economy #APCER 2025

Taiwan Takes the Lead in Circular Economy

The Asia Pacific Circular Economy Roundtable & Hotspot 2025 (APCER & Hotspot 2025) successfully concluded recently in Taipei, marking a significant milestone in Taiwan's continuous efforts to be at the forefront of the circular economy. This four-day event brought together over 500 participants from approximately 50 countries, including governmental officials, industry leaders, and academic experts, all gathered to foster renewable and sustainable practices across the Asia-Pacific region.

Co-hosted by Taiwan’s Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Agriculture, and the Circular Taiwan Network, the event seeks to accelerate the dialogue and cooperation on circular economy initiatives. A significant achievement from this gathering was the introduction of the Taiwan Circular Economy Roadmap, which serves as both a strategic national framework and a collaborative strategy for international partnerships.

In recent years, Taiwan has made impressive strides in developing its green-technology sector, which contributed more than NT$500 billion (around $15 billion) in added value in 2024, accounting for 2% of the nation’s GDP. Notably, the circular economy sector has seen substantial growth, emerging as the leading contributor in added value and employment among seven green-technology sectors, with an impressive annual growth rate of nearly 10%. These figures underscore the sector’s vital role in Taiwan’s broader industrial transformation.

During the forum, various stakeholders engaged in dynamic brainstorming sessions, enabling both local and international participants to provide real-time insights and innovative ideas on collaborative efforts. The emphasis on cross-sector partnerships highlights Taiwan’s intent to pursue a more integrated and inclusive approach toward achieving circular economy goals. Minister of Environment, Peng Chi-ming, articulated Taiwan's commitment to being a proactive partner in this transformation, stating, “This forum marks a new starting point — a platform for creating circular solutions together. The circular transition requires collective efforts from global partners, and Taiwan will continue to be a key partner in advancing regional circular cooperation.”

As the event came to a close, the symbolic handover to Sydney, Australia, was announced. The city will host the 2026 Asia Pacific Circular Economy Hotspot in collaboration with Oceania partners. The groundwork established in Taiwan will propel further initiatives in the region, nurturing connectivity and collaboration that promote resilience, competitiveness, and sustainability.

With the energy and momentum generated at the APCER 2025 event, Taiwan is poised to continue leading advancements in the circular economy, setting an example for other nations to follow. The cooperative spirit and strategic engagements fostered during this event lay the foundation for a genuinely circular future in the Asia-Pacific region, demonstrating the potential for harmonious relations between economic growth and sustainability.

In summary, the APCER 2025 conference not only showcased Taiwan's leadership in promoting circular economy principles but also underscored the importance of collaborative efforts among international stakeholders. The steps taken at this forum will undoubtedly have lasting impacts on future initiatives in sustainability and circular economic practices.