Five Major Industry Associations Join Forces to Connect Taiwan's Commercial Districts, Culture, Tourism, and Hospitality for Shared Prosperity

As the year approaches its midpoint, it is the perfect time to review goals and adjust our pace. Led by President Chou Shui-mei of the Taiwan Commercial District Culture Tourism Industry Federation, five major industry associations held a grand joint appreciation banquet on the evening of May 25 at the Han來 Grand Hotel Taipei. Distinguished guests gathered in force; President Lai Ching-te sent a calligraphic inscription and a floral basket as a gesture of goodwill. Former Premier Su Tseng-chang, Director-General of the Department of Commerce Su Wen-ling, and Taipei Deputy Mayor Lin Yi-hua all attended in person to offer their congratulations. Member representatives from the five organizations — the Taiwan Commercial District Culture Tourism Industry Federation, the Taipei Commercial District Industry Federation, the Taipei Hot Spring Development Association, the Taiwan Asia-Pacific International Hot Spring Tourism Association, and the Taipei Hotel Industry Development Association — gathered together, demonstrating remarkable unity and solidarity.

Although Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an was unable to attend in person, he specially recorded a video message to express his support. Mayor Chiang remarked warmly: Today's joint appreciation banquet of the five associations reflects our gratitude — under the leadership of President Chou Shui-mei and through the collective efforts of industry leaders, the commercial districts, culture, tourism, and hospitality sectors have been interconnected and collaborative, maximizing impact and bringing greater vitality to Taipei. We are also grateful for the long-term partnership with all industry leaders, whose event planning, commercial district marketing, and tourism promotion have not only driven foot traffic and business opportunities, but have also allowed visitors from home and abroad to experience Taipei's rich urban charm. The city government will continue to promote a smoke-free city, creating a friendlier and more comfortable public environment so that everyone can shop and travel with ease, enjoying a higher quality of life.

As the key driving force behind this grand event, President Chou Shui-mei stated in her address: Over the past few years, we have all faced many challenges and changes together, but I have always believed in one saying: "Going alone may be fast, but going together takes you far." The four pillars of commercial district prosperity, cultural rootedness, tourism promotion, and hospitality development are all indispensable. It is precisely because of the unity and collective efforts of commercial district partners across Taiwan that we have been able to transform Taiwan's warmth and local character into the greatest draw for international tourists. Today's grand gathering is not only a celebration of our seamless cooperation, but also a demonstration of our industry's resolve for "shared prosperity and mutual benefit." And while we work hand in hand to boost the economy and tourism, we have never forgotten our social responsibility as business and community leaders. Therefore, at this moment filled with gratitude, we are translating our thankful hearts into concrete action by donating charitable funds to the Taiwan Alzheimer's Disease Association. We hope that this modest contribution will inspire others, so that the elders and families in need throughout society can truly feel the warmth extended by Taiwan's commercial districts and industries. Furthermore, the thriving and united state of Taiwan's commercial districts today did not happen overnight — credit must be given to the many pioneers who blazed the trail. On the occasion of tonight's banquet, I would like to present, on behalf of the Federation, certificates of appreciation to the "outgoing chairpersons and board members of the Six Metropolitan Commercial Districts." Thank you for your selfless dedication and devoted leadership on the front lines, which laid the most solid foundation for local economies. Your departure from office is not an ending, but a passing of the torch.

This warm and heartfelt joint banquet not only demonstrated the remarkable cohesion of the five industry associations, but also laid a solid foundation for future cooperation among Taiwan's commercial districts, culture, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Looking ahead, commercial districts and industries will continue to uphold the spirit of "going together for shared prosperity," collaborating with local and central government agencies at all levels to deepen local characteristics and connect with the international community. At the same time, driven by the heartfelt desire to give back to society, they will continue to promote the flourishing development of Taiwan's tourism industry, showcasing Taiwan's unique urban charm and deep human warmth to the world.