Taiwan has few resources, has three times the population density of Japan and exports an incredible 50% of its gross national product, yet despite favourable economic trends and political stability, its future is uncertain. The author explains why, and offers an analysis of Taiwan’s status in the international political community, in the light of the complications it presents for international law and US-Chinese relations.

Taiwan has few resources, has three times the population density of Japan and exports an incredible 50% of its gross national product, yet despite favourable economic trends and political stability, its future is uncertain. The author explains why, and offers an analysis of Taiwan’s status in the international political community, in the light of the complications it presents for international law and US-Chinese relations.