Jiann-Chyuan Wang, the Vice President of the Chung-Hua Institution for Economic Research (CIER), passed away on January 8 at the age of 67. The news sent shockwaves through academic and policy think tank circles, prompting an outpouring of grief and remembrance. Vice President Jiann-Chyuan Wang worked at the CIER for over 35 years, dedicating his career to Taiwan’s industrial economic research and public policy analysis. He established himself as a leading policy researcher and a prominent figure in the nation’s think tank community.
Vice President Jiann-Chyuan Wang was a native of Lukang township in Changhua County. He graduated from the Department of Economics at National Taiwan University and earned his doctoral degree in economics from Purdue University in the United States. Upon returning to Taiwan, he decided not to pursue an academic teaching position. Instead, he dedicated himself to the CIER, where he focused on transforming economic theory, industrial intelligence, and societal needs into actionable policy recommendations for government decision-making. This work highlights the crucial role that policy think tanks play in public governance.
Jiann-Chyuan Wang held numerous research and management positions during his tenure at the CIER. His research encompassed macroeconomics, industrial economics, small & medium-sized enterprise development, and technology policy. He served as acting President on three occasions, making significant contributions to institutional operations, research direction, and organizational communication. Upon reaching retirement age, the board of directors elected to appoint him as Vice President, a decision that reflects their strong recognition of his professional capabilities and extensive leadership experience.
Vice President Jiann-Chyuan Wang engaged deeply with frontline industries, emphasizing the importance of practical, feasible policies and social responsiveness. He introduced the concept of a “grassroots economy,” which directed attention to the challenges faced by small & medium-sized enterprises, middle- and low-income earners, the central and southern regions of Taiwan, as well as the younger generation. His goal is to ensure that the benefits of economic growth are distributed more equitably across all sectors of society. Vice President Wang also presented a progressive vision for Taiwan’s economic growth by emphasizing the importance of modernizing traditional industries, easing regulations in the service sector, and restructuring industrial frameworks.
President Hsien-Ming Lien praised Vice President Jiann-Chyuan Wang for his diligent scholarship and deep commitment to societal issues, and applauded his dedication to bridging the gap between theoretical analysis and practical policy implementation. His professional spirit and sense of public mission will endure in the fields of policy research and public governance, and the CIER’s colleagues will forever cherish Vice President Wang’s warm personality and charming nature.
Author: CIER Editorial Team
Date: January 9, 2026