During the Sino-French War, the French targeted Taiwan in the Keelung Campaign of 1884. Initially, the French forces led by Sébastien Lespès bombarded Keelung's harbor but faced resistance from a larger Chinese force under Liu Mingchuan, forcing them to withdraw. However, on October 1, Amédée Courbet led 2,250 French troops to successfully capture Keelung, despite failing to take Tamsui. The French then imposed a blockade on Taiwan, but it was only partially effective. French ships captured junks around mainland China's coast to use the occupants for constructing defensive works in Keelung, but supply junks continued to arrive at Takau and Anping, undermining the blockade.

By late January 1885, Chinese forces suffered a significant defeat around Keelung. Despite capturing the city, the French were unable to extend their control beyond its limits. Attempts to capture Tamsui failed again in March, and a French naval bombardment led to the surrender of Penghu. However, many French soldiers fell ill shortly afterward, debilitating their fighting capabilities.

An armistice was reached on April 15, 1885, signaling the end of hostilities. The French completed their evacuation from Keelung by June 21, and Penghu remained under Chinese control. Despite their early successes and imposing a blockade, the French campaign in Taiwan ultimately yielded limited strategic gains.