The Taiwanese city is hosting the boys' tournament for the second time in a row after also staging the youth event in 2015.

"Tainan is the youth baseball capital of the world," said Fraccari.

"That's why the city is hosting this event for the second straight time."

The United States are the defending champions after beating hosts Chinese Taipei 7-2 in the 2015 final at the Tainan Municipal Stadium.

They will play in Group B with South Korea, Australia, Panama, Nicaragua and Germany.

The home side will contest Group A alongside Japan, Mexico, Czech Republic, Brazil and South Africa.

Despite the young age of the players, the results in Tainan will count towards the overall WBSC rankings.

"We want the young athletes to come here and feel at home," said Tainan Mayor Hsu Tain Tsair.

"Remember, you are here to compete, but also to make friends.

"The new trophy is worth $25,000 (£19,000/€21,400) and is pretty heavy. 

"Why move it from Taiwan?"

Baseball Federation of Asia President Tom Pen and Chinese Taipei Baseball Association President Peng Chenghao are among those present for the tournament.

Tomorrow's opening day will see the hosts play Brazil and the US begin their defence against Australia.

Other games see Mexico play South Africa, Czech Republic meet Japan, Panama clash with South Korea and Nicaragua face Germany.

The final will be played on August 6.

Peanuts character Snoopy is serving as tournament mascot.