On Taiwan's remote islands, Lithuanian beer is the star

 

 On Taiwan's remote islands, Lithuanian beer is the star

On the Taiwan-administered Matsu Islands, Lithuanian beer dominates. On store shelves in this remote location, the prime spots are reserved for brands from the Baltic state.
 
It is not just the high alcohol content or the rich taste that wins the hearts of beer lovers. It is geopolitics.
 
Lithuania has taken a beating from China for allowing the opening of a Taiwanese Representative Office in its capital, Vilnius, and deepening relations with the island. It was also the first country to pull out of the "17+1" cooperation framework that China established with Eastern and Central European countries.
 
The many Lithuanian beer brands on display at Taiwanese convenience stores reflect the fierce tug of war in play.