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In 2016, the Tsai administration proposed the "New Southward Policy" which stressed "people-centered, bilateral exchanges" to encourage the development of Taiwanese businesses in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Australia and New Zealand. This study collected information on the natural environment, customs, labor costs, and other pertinent national information on Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. At the same time, the author conducted in-depth interviews with SME owners or managers to explore the problems that Taiwanese businessmen may face or obstacles that they may need assistance with during the development process. We also provided recommendations for Taiwanese businessmen and the government for overseas investment as part of the New Southward Policy. First, Taiwanese businesses will face a linguistic communication problem; it is recommended that the government develop linguistic talent. Second, the three nations mentioned face varying degrees of labor shortages at different levels; it is recommended that the government encourage investments in non-labor intensive industries and establish industry-academic cooperation to achieve academic integration. Third, basic wages are increasing, and labor consciousness is growing; it is recommended that the government assist Taiwanese businesses in the improvement of old ideas, integration of new insights, and the careful assessment of risks. Fourth, there are significant differences among ASEAN member nations and the rules are not integrated; it is recommended that Taiwanese businesses improve the added value of their products and open up blue ocean markets. |