Impact of the spread of infectious disease on economic development: a study in risk management

At the peak of the worldwide SARS epidemic, apprehension arose out of partially disclosed, if not concealed, information on the current status has driven many foreign‐based companies to withdraw their business in Taiwan or move their bases elsewhere. Normal trading, investment and travel were suspended or came to a standstill. This paper traces the spread of SARS in Taiwan and the corresponding measures undertaken. Proposals on emergency action in crisis management are also made, which can serve as references for investors in risk control assessment.