MEDIA

FACT FOCUS

Taiwan ranks first in Asia in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders.

The diversity of Taiwan’s media is reflected in the plethora of outlets and intense competition within the industry. The nation’s press operates in a media environment that is the most liberal in Asia.

Taiwan was ranked 24th globally and first in Asia in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index released May 2 by France-based Reporters Without Borders. In the survey of 180 countries and territories, Taiwan finished ahead of South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong and China. As of June 2024, a total of 176 journalists from 84 media organizations in 22 countries were based in Taiwan.

President Lai Ching-te (front, second right) poses for a selfie with staff from two local news agencies. (Courtesy of PO)

Digital TV Household Penetration Rate 100%

Thriving independent bookstores are part of Taiwan’s vibrant media landscape. (Chin Hung-hao)

Most types of media are engaged in an industrywide transition to digital distribution. Drawing on Taiwan’s strengths in information and communications technologies, e-publishing is injecting fresh vitality into the local publishing industry, which released 36,174 new titles between January and August 2024.

Digitization of cable television has not only significantly improved the visual experience of viewers, but also unleashed more innovative and diverse broadband services. With digitization virtually completed, cable television has become an important platform for various multimedia applications.

Yushan