The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Taiwan (MOFA) has unveiled a range of Taiwanese-themed gifts aimed at impressing visiting foreign dignitaries. According to Bruce Hung, head of the MOFA's Department of General Affairs, these gifts are carefully selected to leave a lasting impression of the country on the guests.

During a press conference on October 24, Hung revealed the strategy behind the selection of the gifts. The MOFA opts for lightweight and practical gifts that can easily fit into the dignitaries' luggage, considering their potential travel to other destinations after their stay in Taiwan.

Gifts featuring Taiwanese motifs, such as endangered native flora and fauna, have been favored in recent years to showcase Taiwan's natural and cultural environment and leave a positive impression on the guests.

Popular gifts include sets of plates and tea cups featuring motifs such as the Formosan black bear and the Formosan blue magpie, as well as traditional indigo-dyed Hakka products and paperweights shaped like figures from Ju Ming's (朱銘) acclaimed Taichi Series, a renowned Taiwanese sculptor.

Additionally, the renowned Alishan Jin Xuan Oolong tea and Taitung Luye Red Oolong tea are standout choices for tea enthusiasts visiting Taiwan.

The MOFA must consider certain taboos when selecting gifts, such as value limits set by some countries or cultural restrictions, such as avoiding Chinese zodiac animals considered impure in Muslim culture.

Hung pointed out Australia and New Zealand's particular interest in gifts related to Taiwanese indigenous tribes, given their own indigenous cultural heritage.

"We have observed the positive reception of our gifts in the offices of foreign guests abroad, which demonstrates our continued efforts to promote Taiwan," expressed Hung, who previously served as an envoy to Australia based in Brisbane.