Throughout its dynamic history, Taiwan has weathered economic cycles, consistently demonstrating its pivotal role in the global economy.
Taiwan proudly secures the 3rd spot among 39 nations in the Asia-Pacific region, boasting an overall score surpassing both regional and worldwide averages.
Remarkably, Taiwan stands as a rare example of sustained economic growth over the past five years, cementing its position as a powerhouse in the global information and communication technology sector and a significant supplier across various industries.
Zhang Congyuan
Zhang Congyuan, a Taiwanese billionaire and the brains behind Huali Industrial, has firmly established his enterprise’s prowess. Huali’s extensive portfolio includes renowned brands like Nike, Puma, UGG and Vans. Producing over 180 million pairs of shoes annually, Huali’s production capacity remained steadfast during the pandemic’s turbulence. Zhang’s entrepreneurial journey commenced on a pig farm and today, at 74, he stands as the richest self-made newcomer on Forbes’ World Billionaires list. Often dubbed the enigmatic “shoe king” by Taiwanese media, Zhang’s philosophy echoes in his famous words: “Success hinges on your determination to outperform others.”
Daniel M. Tsai
Daniel M. Tsai, the chairman of the Fubon Group, oversees an empire rooted in financial services, founded in 1961. The Fubon Group has consistently provided Taiwan with comprehensive financial solutions. Mr. Tsai also leads Taiwan Mobile, a prominent player in mobile communications, cable TV, broadband services and digital content. Alongside his brother Richard Tsai, they rank third in Forbes Taiwan’s Richest 2021, boasting a combined wealth of US$7.9 billion. Engaging in philanthropic endeavors with his wife, Tsai actively promotes digital literacy among young individuals.
Lin Shu Hong
Suhon Lin, a Taiwanese billionaire and co-founder of the Chang Chun Group, embarks on a remarkable journey. Establishing the business in 1949 with fellow classmates Tseng Shin-Yi and M.K. Liao, they began with a modest $100 investment. Lin remains the sole surviving member of this pioneering trio. Today, the Chang Chun Group stands as one of Asia’s premier petrochemical companies, with extensive operations in Southeast Asia, Taiwan and mainland China. The prestigious award of an honorary doctorate to Lin Shu-Hong, the president of Changchun Petrochemical Group and vice president Tseng Shin-Yi, symbolizes Taiwan’s significant contribution to the petrochemical industry.
Terry Gou
Terry Gou, the Taiwanese business titan, stands as the founder of Foxconn, a company later known as Hon Hai. Often likened to the “Donald Trump of Taiwan,” Gou boasts immense wealth, an influential business empire and a penchant for marrying multiple times. With a net worth of $10.6 billion, he ranks as the third wealthiest individual in Taiwan, surpassing even the current Taiwanese president in popularity. Gou’s journey to success commenced in 1980 when he secured a contract to produce connectors between Atari’s console and the joystick.
Barry Lam
Barry Lam, the chairman of Quanta Computer, presides over one of the world’s leading manufacturers of notebook computers and electronics. His active involvement in steering the company’s strategies, vision and R&D initiatives has been instrumental in Quanta’s global success. Recognized as one of the top ten Most Admired Entrepreneurs in a survey by Common Wealth magazine in 2015, Lam extends his impact through the Quanta Cultural and Educational Foundation, dedicated to promoting culture, art and education in Taiwan.
Samuel Yin
Samuel Yin, one of Taiwan’s wealthiest individuals, hails from the Ruentex Group’s lineage—a billion-dollar conglomerate spanning financial services, construction, medical services and retail. Yin’s ambition materialized in the creation of the Tang Prize in 2012, an international award akin to the Nobel Prize. His philanthropic mission aims to advance research benefiting humanity, promote Chinese culture and contribute to global betterment. Apart from his entrepreneurial endeavors, Yin is an avid offshore sailor who commissioned the construction of two yachts.
Pierre Chen
Pierre Chen, among Taiwan’s richest individuals, founded the electronics giant Yageo Corporation in 1977. His profound influence extends to the Yageo Foundation Collection, which houses his extensive personal art collection. This collection primarily focuses on masterpieces from the Modern and Post-War periods, reflecting Chen’s passion for culture and the arts.
Rudy Ma
Rudy Ma, a Taiwanese billionaire, established Yuanta Financial in 1961, a prominent financial services company headquartered in Taipei. In 2014, he faced legal repercussions and was sentenced to 7 ½ years in jail for a breach of trust. Despite his setbacks, his son Wei Chen continues to serve on the company’s board, and the Ma family holds one of Taiwan’s most prominent art collections.
Kenneth Yen
Kenneth Yen, a Taiwanese entrepreneur, left an indelible mark on the world. He chaired China Motor and Yulon Motor, two of Taiwan’s largest automakers, until his passing in December 2018. Forbes magazine estimated his net worth at US$540 million, and Yen was the adopted son of Yulon Group founder Yen Ching-ling. His legacy continues through the Yulon Group.
Luo Jye
Luo Jye initiated Cheng Shin Rubber in 1967, beginning as a tire supplier for Taiwan’s burgeoning bicycle industry. Today, under the leadership of his son, Lo Tsai-Jen, the company—now known as CST—has become one of the world’s foremost manufacturers of tires and tubes, spanning motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, cars, bicycles, forklifts and lawn equipment.