Taiwan Boosts Funding to Strengthen Ties in LAC

The Daily Mirror is reporting that Taiwan has announced a major increase in funding to deepen its diplomatic presence in Latin America and the Caribbean, as it seeks to counter Beijing’s growing influence in the region.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has allocated NT$5.3 billion (US$174.15 million) to its Department of Latin American and Caribbean Affairs for 2026. The budget will support the Diplomatic Allies Prosperity Project, launched last year by Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍), aimed at helping Taiwan’s allies with economic development and industrial transformation.

Part of the funding will also be directed toward cooperation projects with non-diplomatic partners, reflecting Taipei’s strategy to expand ties beyond its official allies. According to MOFA, the budget also covers costs to host delegations, with 330 visitors from Latin America expected next year, a move seen as countering China’s attempts to lure away Taiwan’s remaining allies.

In addition, Taiwan has set aside NT$53.84 million to organise events with local governments, universities, think tanks, media, and NGOs in the region, further strengthening its international visibility.

A diplomatic source noted that several South American countries are pursuing greater diplomatic autonomy and economic diversification, which could create new opportunities for Taiwan to expand bilateral exchanges.

Taiwan currently maintains formal relations with Belize, Guatemala, Haiti, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, and Paraguay.