Hsinchu or Hsin-chu
[key], city, NW Taiwan. The city and surrounding area are noted for the
production of tea, rice, oranges, and petroleum. Hsinchu has become an
important computer and electronics engineering and manufacturing center.
Other major industries include petroleum refining and the manufacture of
cement, fertilizers, textiles, and glass. Iron ore, coal, gold, and silver
are mined. Immigrants from the China mainland formed a colony at Hsinchu in
the early 1700s. Since the 19th cent. the city has been a thriving
commercial center.
The Columbia Electronic Encyclopedia, 6th ed. Copyright © 2024, Columbia University Press. All rights reserved.
See more Encyclopedia articles on: Taiwan Political Geography
