March 25, 2025 | By Anand Shah

When Indian travellers think of business events, conferences, or luxury getaways in Asia, destinations like Singapore, Thailand, or Malaysia often come to mind. However, Taiwan is rapidly emerging as an attractive alternative, offering a seamless blend of modern infrastructure, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. For Indian travel agents and tour operators, Taiwan presents a lucrative opportunity to tap into the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector, as well as luxury tourism.

A Strategic MICE Destination
Taiwan’s MICE industry has been growing steadily, with world-class facilities and government initiatives aimed at attracting international business travellers. Taipei, the capital city, boasts state-of-the-art convention centres like the Taipei International Convention Center (TICC) and the Nangang Exhibition Center, both equipped to host large-scale events. With high-tech amenities, seamless connectivity, and multilingual support, these venues cater perfectly to Indian corporate delegations.

Beyond Taipei, cities like Kaohsiung and Taichung also offer excellent options. The Kaohsiung Exhibition Center, located by the waterfront, provides a scenic setting for business gatherings, while Taichung’s International Exhibition Center is a rising star for corporate events. The Taiwanese government actively supports MICE tourism with incentives, making it an appealing choice for Indian companies looking to host international summits, dealer meets, and team-building retreats.

Effortless Connectivity and Visa Policies
For Indian travellers, accessibility plays a crucial role in choosing a business or luxury destination. Taiwan has been improving connectivity, with direct flights from major Indian cities under discussion and seamless transit options via Hong Kong, Singapore, and Bangkok. Taiwan’s visa policies have also become more streamlined for Indian travellers, with visa-exempt entry for those holding valid visas from countries like the US, UK, Schengen, Canada, Japan, Australia, and South Korea. Additionally, the e-visa facility makes the process more convenient for business travellers and high-end tourists.

Luxury Redefined: Taiwan’s Opulent Side
Luxury travel is another segment where Taiwan has been making its mark. The country offers an exclusive blend of high-end hospitality, bespoke experiences, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Luxury hotels like the Mandarin Oriental Taipei, W Taipei, and the Silks Place Taroko provide world-class accommodations, complete with Michelin-starred dining and top-tier wellness facilities.

For Indian high-net-worth travellers, Taiwan’s hot spring resorts, such as those in Beitou and Jiaoxi, offer rejuvenating retreats akin to Japan’s famed onsen culture. For an ultra-exclusive experience, private yacht charters around the Sun Moon Lake or the Kenting coastline allow travellers to explore Taiwan’s natural beauty in complete privacy.

Cultural Immersion and Unique Incentive Programs
Unlike traditional business destinations, Taiwan offers a rich cultural landscape that adds value to corporate incentive programs. Companies looking to provide employees or partners with a mix of work and leisure can arrange experiences like tea appreciation ceremonies, calligraphy workshops, or guided heritage walks in Jiufen and Tainan.

For the more adventurous, Taiwan’s dramatic landscapes offer outdoor incentive experiences, such as paragliding over the East Rift Valley, night cycling along Kaohsiung’s Love River, or hiking the awe-inspiring Taroko Gorge. These curated experiences make Taiwan stand out as a MICE destination that goes beyond just boardrooms and ballrooms.

A Culinary Affair for Indian Palates
Food is an integral part of any travel experience, and for Indian travellers, Taiwan’s culinary scene offers a delightful surprise. While Taiwanese cuisine is known for its dumplings, seafood, and bubble tea, the country also boasts a variety of vegetarian and Indian-friendly dining options. Cities like Taipei and Taichung have Indian restaurants catering to specific dietary preferences, while luxury hotels offer customised menus for business and leisure travellers alike.

Additionally, incentive travel programs can incorporate culinary experiences like street food tours in Taipei’s Shilin Night Market, dumpling-making classes, or exclusive dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants. These gastronomic highlights add another layer of appeal for Indian travellers looking for a well-rounded luxury experience.

Why Taiwan Deserves a Spot in Indian Travel Portfolios
For Indian travel experts, Taiwan represents an untapped market with immense potential. With its cutting-edge infrastructure, diverse luxury experiences, and cultural richness, it provides a compelling alternative to traditional MICE and high-end travel destinations in Asia. Travel agents and tour operators can leverage Taiwan’s unique offerings to create specialised packages for corporate groups, luxury travellers, and incentive programs.

As Taiwan continues to promote itself as a world-class travel destination, early adopters in the Indian travel industry stand to gain from positioning it as a fresh, unexplored, and rewarding option for discerning Indian travellers.