SINGAPORE (May 6, 2021) – While the pandemic disrupted lives and economies around the world, Taiwan remained largely unscathed. Thanks to booming tech exports and increased domestic demand, Taiwan had one of Asia’s top-performing economies, growing 3% in 2020. The benchmark Taiex index rose 45% since fortunes were last measured 15 months ago, lifting the collective net worth of Taiwan’s 50 richest by a third to US$149 billion. Overall, 36 listees added to their wealth. The complete 2021 Forbes Taiwan Rich List can be found here.
On the back of a successful IPO in April, Zhang Congyuan, founder of shoe manufacturer Huali Industrial Group, who shares the fortune with his family, made an impressive debut at No. 1 with a net worth of $13.8 billion. Zhang built Huali into a key supplier for global brands, including Nike, Puma, UGG and Vans.
Brothers Tsai Hong-tu and Cheng-ta of Cathay Financial Holding retained their No. 2 position with a net worth of $9.2 billion. Daniel and…