TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan will continue investing in Guatemala, Ambassador Vivia Chang (張俊菲) said in an interview with Prensa Libre published Monday.

Chang described Guatemala as a crucial hub for Taiwanese investors, citing its skilled labor force and abundant resources. She said the country serves as "a starting point" for entrepreneurs looking to access markets in neighboring countries and the US. "Even in Guatemala itself, there is a strong market," she added.

She also expressed gratitude for US Secretary of State Marco Rubio's recent remarks in support of Taiwan-Guatemala diplomatic ties during his visit to Guatemala City earlier this month. "Based on this support, we can build a more strategic alliance between the three countries, rooted in shared values such as democracy, freedom, and respect for human rights," she said.

President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) has pledged to continue working with both the US and Guatemala to strengthen trade and investment, Chang said.

Bilateral trade between Taiwan and Guatemala reached US$340.9 million (NT$11.16 billion) in 2024. Taiwan imported nearly US$150 million worth of Guatemalan products, primarily sugar, sugarcane derivatives, and coffee, while Guatemala purchased US$192 million worth of goods from Taiwan, including fertilizers, petrochemical products, and electronic devices.

In addition to trade, Taiwan has awarded scholarships to 200 Guatemalan students currently studying on the island, Chang noted. Each year, Taiwan provides 50 full scholarships for undergraduate, master's, and doctoral students.

Chang said she was "very optimistic" about future cooperation with Guatemala, emphasizing that Taiwan would continue to strengthen bilateral ties. "Taiwan is a reliable partner for Guatemala, and Guatemala is also a reliable partner for Taiwan," she said.