Taiwan , Pacific Rim
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WEATHER
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LIFESPAN
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ECONOMY
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RELIGION
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SCHOOLING
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CROPS
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FLOWERS
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SPORTS
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Taiwan’s flag has a red field with a dark blue rectangle in the upper left side
corner bearing a white sun with 12 triangular rays. The blue color signifies
liberty, justice, and democracy. The red stands for fraternity, sacrifice, and
nationalism. The white represents equality, frankness, and the people's
livelihood. The 12 rays of the sun represent the months and the twelve
traditional Chinese hours. The blue and white design symbolizes the sun of
progress.
Taiwan lies on the Tropic of Cancer, Which means its climate is marine
tropical. The northern part of the island has an extended rainy season that
last from January to late march. During this time Taiwan experiences
northeast monsoons and the meiyu front (precipitation for nearly two
months). The entire island experiences hot, humid weather from June
through September. Natural hazards such as typhoons and earthquakes are
common in this region.
Life expectancy on average is 78 years old (males 75 years, females 81
years).
Taiwan has a dynamic, capitalist, export-driven economy with gradually
decreasing state involvement in investment and foreign trade. Exports have
provided the primary momentum for industrialization. This heavy
dependence on exports exposes the economy to upturns and downturns in
world demand. Taiwan's diplomatic isolation, low birth rate, and rapidly
aging population are major long-term challenges. Taiwan has focused much
of its efforts on improving the cross-Strait economic relationship. In June
2010 Taiwan and the mainland signed the landmark Economic Cooperation
Framework Agreement (ECFA), which Taiwan authorities hope will
eventually lead to a free-trade arrangement. The ECFA will increase crossStrait economic ties by lowering tariffs on a number of goods and by
reducing market access barriers for services.
Mixture of Buddhist and Taoist 93%, Christian 4.5%, other 2.5%
The literacy rate in Taiwan is 96%.The educational system in Taiwan
produces pupils with some of the highest test scores in the world. These
students excel in mathematics and science. Taiwan has been criticized for
placing excessive pressure on students and avoiding creativity in favor of
routine memorization. 95% of students go on to high school, trade school or
college. Current law mandates 9 years of schooling. Taiwan’s President
announced that the government is going to implement a 12 year
compulsory education program by 2014.
Rice, vegetables, fruit, tea, flowers.
The national flower of Taiwan is the plum blossom. Other popular flowers
include orchids, phalaenopsis, red anthodium and white lilies.
The most popular sport in Taiwan is baseball. Other popular sports are
taekwondo, basketball, table tennis and cycling.