TAIPEI: Taiwan has held its first round of tariff negotiations with the United States, with both sides expressing interest in continuing discussions in the near future, the island’s government announced today.
The talks come as Taiwan, a globashortlyl leader in semiconductor manufacturing and home to industry giant TSMC, faces a 32% tariff on its exports to the US. While labelling the duties as unfair, Taiwan moved swiftly to engage with Washington, proposing a zero-tariff regime alongside increased purchases and investment in the United States.
According to a statement by Taiwan’s Office of Trade Negotiations, officials from both sides conducted the discussions via video conference, though the identities of the US participants were not disclosed.
The dialogue focused on reciprocal tariffs, non-tariff trade barriers, and broader economic concerns — including export controls. “Both sides look forward to conducting follow-up consultations in the near future and jointly building a strong and stable economic and trade relationship between Taiwan and the US,” the office said.
The US Trade Representative’s office has yet to comment, with the request for a statement made outside of Washington’s regular working hours.
Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump announced a temporary easing of the newly imposed tariffs on numerous countries, while intensifying trade pressure on China.
Taiwan has long sought a formal free trade agreement with the US, its key international supporter and arms supplier, despite the absence of official diplomatic relations. These latest talks mark a significant step in that direction.
The island continues to face rising military and political pressure from China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory. Taiwan’s government firmly rejects these claims, asserting that only the island’s people have the right to determine their future.–REUTERS
