Julia G. Bentley, a former diplomat and now research associate at York University’s Centre for Asian Research (YCAR), spent three months in Taiwan exploring how its academic community can help Canadians better understand the Sinosphere (referring to the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan) as well as the Indo-Pacific region.
Based at National Taiwan University’s Centre for China Studies in spring 2025, Bentley examined Taiwan’s role as a platform for developing China-related expertise and broader regional understanding in the context of diminished international access to experts in the People’s Republic of China.
Her research was supported by the China Insights Fund, administered by YCAR with funding from the Asian Business and Management Program (ABMP) and a Taiwan Fellowship.
Bentley’s study shows that Taiwan offers an open academic environment where Canadians can gain important insights into the Sinosphere.
Despite reduced exchanges between Taiwan and mainland China over the past decade, Bentley found many scholars in Taiwan continue to engage with counterparts across the Taiwan Strait, providing informed analysis on diverse point of views within the Chinese-speaking world.
“This research is particularly timely as Canada continues to face a sustained need for individuals with strong China competencies,” says Bentley. “Canada will benefit from having more people who understand developments in China, are proficient in Mandarin and are familiar with a range of perspectives within the Sinosphere.”
Such expertise can be developed in both mainland China and Taiwan, she adds, noting those seeking an alternative to the People’s Republic of China should consider Taiwan as a springboard for this endeavour.
YCAR and ABMP support research that strengthens Asia-focused knowledge, fosters cross-cultural understanding and advances informed Canadian engagement with the Indo-Pacific through initiatives like the China Insights Fund.
Bentley’s findings highlight Taiwan’s role in helping Canadians build the expertise needed to navigate an increasingly complex regional and global landscape. Her research also underscores the importance of studying Taiwan on its own terms, including its economic development, technological capabilities as well as its democratic and social transformation.
The full report, along with resources on Sinosphere studies and Canada-Taiwan academic exchanges, is available online.