TAIPEI (TVBS News)—Taiwan's Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) expressed concerns on Monday (April 21) about Taiwan's international status, stating that "if Taiwan were a fully recognized nation, the president could directly call U.S. President Donald Trump." However, due to its current international standing, Taiwan must employ alternative efforts.
Cho's comments came as he met with the 37th Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce of North America delegation team (第37屆北美臺商回國訪問暨投資考察團) earlier that day. He highlighted the impact of President Trump's new tariff policy, which immediately affected Taiwan and other major countries. Following a 90-day delay, Taiwan aims to secure a better agreement through direct negotiations.
He emphasized that the government had prepared various measures before April 3 and activated all plans afterward, proposing an NT$88 billion industry support plan. The Executive Yuan will pass a special ordinance on Thursday and seek a special budget from the Legislature to minimize the impact on domestic industries.
Taiwan and the U.S. held their first video conference on April 11, during which Taiwan presented its demands and anticipated swift formal negotiations. Cho outlined a three-step approach: supporting industries, preparing plans, and initiating further talks. Taiwan's delegation will bring various proposals, including negotiations on tariffs, non-tariff trade barriers, and export controls. These proposals aim to benefit Taiwan's business community in the U.S., with hopes for future government and private sector collaboration to extend Taiwan's influence.
Agricultural negotiations remain a significant focus, with non-tariff trade barriers listed. Cho assured that the government would consider citizens' health and Taiwan's consumption habits, using international standards and scientific evidence, to gradually minimize impacts.
