SINGAPORE: Taiwan on Monday honoured the Singapore Trade Office in Taipei for its role in developing close economic ties between the two sides.

Singapore's trade representative, Mr Stanley Loh, accepted the Golden Merchant Award in Taipei.

The award recognises the accomplishments of local enterprises, foreign firms and trade offices.

Taiwan is Singapore's ninth largest trading partner - with bilateral trade topping S$35 billion in 2008.

"We also see an improvement in the relationship between Taiwan and China. It is very encouraging to our companies because a lot of companies when they invest here, they are not only interested in Taiwanese market but also using Taiwan as a springboard, expanding business to China," said Mr Loh.

- CNA/sc