Douglas Hsu, the head of one of the most diversified conglomerates in Taiwan, has a stake in an array of industries, including textiles, cement, construction, air cargo, petrochemicals, retail, hotels, and telecoms.

Far Eastern Group has its unlikely origins as an underwear supplier started in China by Hsu’s father, but after moving to Taiwan, the company became a major manufacturer of textiles and fibre products. With the philosophy of always trying new things, Hsu has led the textile division to adopt a more sustainable approach and develop fabric made out of recycled plastic bottles. Today, they are Asia’s largest manufacturer of recycled fabric, the kind used in contemporary athletic wear.

Hsu prioritizes long-term sustainability over rapid, risky expansion, and this conservativism has led FEG to become one of the largest companies in Taiwan, whose products and services are found in virtually every aspect of daily life.