Taiwan Intensifies Crackdown on Illegally Operating Chinese Tech Businesses Amid National Security Concerns
Taiwan is increasing its efforts to combat Chinese businesses operating illegally on the island, often through concealed ownership via shell companies or by hiring non-Chinese nationals. Since 2020, Taiwan's Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau (MJIB) has investigated 166 cases involving illegal Chinese ownership, with at least 36 resulting in convictions. These convictions carry penalties including up to three years in prison and fines ranging from USD $3,800 to nearly USD $800,000. Of the convicted companies, 33 were focused on semiconductor research, development, and design. Additionally, the MJIB has investigated 67 cases of Chinese companies allegedly stealing trade secrets from Taiwanese firms. This crackdown is driven by Taiwan's concern that such activities threaten its national security, particularly its 'silicon shield' strategy, which relies on its technological advantage in semiconductors to ensure allied defense against potential invasion. China's efforts to build a rival semiconductor ind... 
