National Cultural Association of Taiwan

The National Cultural Association of Taiwan (NCAT; Chinese: 中華文化總會; Tongyong Pinyin: Jhōnghúa Wénhùa Zǒnghuèi; Tâi-lô: Tiong-huâ bûn-huà tsóng-huē), formerly known in English as the General Association of Chinese Culture (GACC), is a cultural organization in Taiwan established with government support. It originated from the Committee for the Promotion of Chinese Cultural Renaissance (中華文化復興運動推行委員會), which was founded in 1967, and was reorganized as a non-governmental organization in 1991.^[1]

The association has historically been involved in promoting cultural development and exchange whilst operating as a non-governmental organization but maintains close historical ties to the government. Its leadership structure has traditionally included prominent political figures, and the chairperson has often been held by the incumbent president of Taiwan. While originally focused on the promotion of Chinese cultural revival, its contemporary role has shifted toward strengthening connections with Taiwanese cultural identity and facilitating cultural activities and exchanges.

The origins of the association date to 1967, when the government of Taiwan established the Committee for the Promotion of Chinese Cultural Renaissance. The committee was created during a period emphasizing the preservation and promotion of traditional Chinese culture.^[2]

In 1990, the organization was restructured and registered with the Ministry of the Interior as a civil organization under the name General Association of Chinese Culture. Despite its legal status as a non-governmental organization, its leadership has often included senior political figures, with the president of Taiwan frequently serving concurrently as chairperson.

Over time, the association's activities evolved to reflect changes in Taiwan's cultural and political context. Its focus expanded from cultural revival to broader cultural exchange and the promotion of Taiwanese cultural identity.^[3]

In the 2020s, discussions emerged regarding the association's English-language name. Some members and public figures argued that the existing name, which included the term "Chinese culture", did not adequately reflect the organization's contemporary focus on Taiwanese culture.

In 2024 and 2025, proposals were made within the association to revise its English name to include the word "Taiwan". In December of that period, the association approved a change in its English name, with the decision subject to confirmation through formal procedures at a general meeting.^[4]

The change was discussed publicly following the resignation of business figure Robert Tsao from the association, who cited concerns about the naming and its implications. The association indicated that while the English name could be adjusted, changing the Chinese name would involve more complex legal procedures and was not under immediate consideration.^[5]

On 17 March 2026, the organization officially changed its English name to National Cultural Association of Taiwan^[6], an act that triggered opposition from Beijing.^[7]

The National Cultural Association of Taiwan organizes and supports a range of cultural activities, including exhibitions, performances, publications, and public events. Its work includes promoting cultural exchange both domestically and internationally. The association also participates in initiatives aimed at strengthening cultural identity and supporting creative industries in Taiwan.

• Culture of Taiwan