Standing on a stage in front of tens of thousands of ecstatic supporters, Tsai Ing-wen, Taiwan’s opposition leader, lists what she would do if elected president when the island goes to the polls tomorrow.

The list avoids the thorny question of relations with China, the big issue for international observers. Instead Ms Tsai hammered away, as she has throughout the eight-month campaign, about the economy, the alleged failing of incumbent Ma Ying-jeou, with whom she is running neck and neck in polls, and how voters have been short-changed.

Ms Tsai promises to help develop local economies, build social housing and tax the rich on property transactions – a line particularly cheered by her supporters. “Tsai Ing-wen wouldn’t shout slogans, and wouldn’t promise you that things will immediately improve, but I will work hard to make all those policies come true,” she said.