TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝) firmly dismissed claims Monday (July 21) that U.S. tariffs on Taiwan could reach 32%, sharply contradicting the government's more modest expectations of 10%. Former Broadcasting Corporation of China (BCC, 中國廣播公司) Chairman Jaw Shaw-kang (趙少康) had made the controversial assertion, but Lee emphasized Taiwan has received no official notification from Washington regarding reciprocal tariff rates. The dispute highlights growing uncertainty over Taiwan-U.S. trade relations amid ongoing negotiations.
Lee announced a new round of Taiwan-U.S. consultations this week, condemning speculation as "irresponsible" and "unacceptable" regardless of underlying personal business or political motives. She pointed out that countries including India and Switzerland have similarly not received U.S. tariff notifications, underscoring the ongoing nature of discussions between Taiwan and America on reciprocal tariffs and broader trade issues. The spokesperson's comments came amid growing international uncertainty about Washington's trade policy direction and implementation timeline across multiple bilateral relationships.
An international law firm compiled a comprehensive list of global tariff rates on July 17, showing Taiwan's rate as 32%. Lee clarified this figure reflects the U.S. reciprocal tariff rate previously announced April 2, not a newly announced rate that would signal escalating trade tensions. Lee pledged to inform the public of any future negotiation developments, affirming the government's unwavering commitment to pursuing balanced bilateral trade, enhancing mutual benefits, and safeguarding national interests, industry interests, public health, and food security across all sectors. ◼
