Taiwan will be part of the first group of trading partners to hold formal tariff talks with the United States, President Lai Ching-te announced on Friday, pledging full preparedness for the negotiations amid escalating global trade tensions.
Speaking to business leaders in Taichung, Lai described the development as a key opportunity to deepen Taiwan’s long-standing efforts to strengthen economic and trade cooperation with the US. His remarks were broadcast live by local media, though he did not provide a specific timeline for the talks.
The announcement follows US President Donald Trump’s move to temporarily reduce newly imposed tariffs on dozens of countries, even as pressure on China intensifies. Taiwan, a global leader in semiconductor manufacturing, had been set to face 32% tariffs under the original plan.
“We are in the first batch of negotiations, and the government will be well prepared,” Lai said. “Taiwan’s desire to strengthen economic and trade cooperation with the United States over the past years can be fulfilled by taking this opportunity.”
President Lai has already proposed offering zero tariffs as a starting point for discussions, stating that Taiwan is prepared to increase both imports from and investments in the United States.
The US Trade Representative’s office has yet to respond to the announcement. However, Washington has confirmed that nearly 70 countries have reached out to initiate talks over the revised tariff measures.
Taiwan, home to chip making giant TSMC, has long sought a free trade agreement with the US—its most critical international supporter and arms supplier, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties. The island also continues to face growing military and political pressure from China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory. Taiwan’s government firmly rejects these claims, asserting that its future lies solely in the hands of its people.
Melissa Enoch
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