TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan stands ready to expand financial protections for its agricultural sector if faced with major changes in U.S. trade policy, a senior official declared on Friday (April 25). The agriculture minister's announcement follows the Executive Yuan (行政院), Taiwan's cabinet, approving a sweeping NT$410 billion (US$12.6 billion) special funding package designed to strengthen the island's economic, social, and security infrastructure amid escalating global uncertainties.
Agriculture Minister Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季) detailed that his department has earmarked NT$18 billion (US$553.8 million) to shield agricultural industries vulnerable to changes in U.S. export conditions. While expressing confidence in the current allocation's adequacy, Chen acknowledged the provisional nature of their planning. "Until the actual tariff structures are announced, we must remain flexible," he explained, outlining a formal process to petition Taiwan's cabinet for supplementary funding should market conditions deteriorate beyond current projections.
When pressed by journalists about worst-case scenarios, Chen reaffirmed his ministry's unwavering commitment to Taiwan's agricultural communities. "Our primary obligation is to our farmers and fishermen," the minister stated, pledging to navigate governmental procedures to secure supplementary funding if necessary. The contingency planning reflects growing concerns across Asia about unpredictable shifts in global trade relationships and Taiwan's determination to insulate its vital food production sectors from external economic pressures. ★
