Chinese Invasion Would Wipe Out Tenth of Global GDP Overnight, Taiwanese Diplomat Warns

A Chinese invasion of Taiwan would eliminate one-tenth of global GDP overnight, according to warnings from a Taiwanese diplomat. The Australian think-tank Lowy Institute predicts that a Chinese occupation of Taiwan would be followed by massive repression and attempts at total control over the island state. The warning highlights the severe economic consequences that would accompany any military action against Taiwan, beyond the immediate humanitarian and political impacts. Taiwan, a self-governing democracy of 23 million people, remains one of the world's most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints, with China claiming the island as part of its territory while Taiwan maintains de facto independence.