Taiwan is an island nation located in East Asia and has limited natural resources compared to some other countries. However, it does possess some valuable resources, including:
- Minerals and Metals:
- Limestone: Taiwan has substantial limestone deposits, which are used in construction, cement production, and other industries.
- Marble: High-quality marble is also found in Taiwan and is used for various architectural and artistic purposes.
- Coal: Taiwan has small coal reserves, but coal production has significantly decreased over the years.
- Agricultural Land: Taiwan has fertile agricultural land, allowing for the cultivation of various crops, including rice, tea, sugarcane, and fruits such as pineapples and guavas.
- Fisheries: The island nation has a significant fishing industry, and its waters are home to a variety of fish and seafood, including tuna, mackerel, and shrimp.
- Forestry: Taiwan has forests that provide timber and other forest products, including bamboo, which is used in construction and various crafts.
- Geothermal Energy: Taiwan has some geothermal resources, which are used for electricity generation and heating purposes.
- Water Resources: Taiwan has several rivers and reservoirs, which are essential for irrigation and freshwater supply.
It’s important to note that Taiwan’s limited natural resources have led the country to focus on technology, manufacturing, and services as key sectors of its economy. Taiwan is well-known for its semiconductor industry and as a global technology hub, which has helped offset the scarcity of certain natural resources through innovation and trade.
Author: Kirill Shrayber, Ph.D.