TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's trade negotiation team conducts critical final-stage talks in the U.S. Tuesday (Sept. 30) to secure a comprehensive trade agreement with Washington. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) announced the discussions follow U.S. Commerce Secretary Lutnik's renewed commitment Monday (Sept. 29) to reaching agreement. The high-stakes negotiations represent a pivotal moment in Taiwan-U.S. economic relations amid shifting global trade dynamics.
Cho emphasized during Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's parliament, proceedings that negotiators work to protect national interests, industry benefits, citizens' health, and food security. The talks unfold amid a new U.S. customs policy introduced in April that ushered in a post-tariff era for bilateral trade. This policy shift positively impacted Taiwan's economy, with growth expected to reach 4.45% and GDP projected at NT$27 trillion (around US$885 billion).
Taiwan's government outlined four key support directions addressing potential tariff impacts: industry support, employment stability, public welfare, and resilience enhancement. These initiatives require Legislative Yuan (立法院), Taiwan's parliament, backing through a resilience special ordinance and budget allocation. Officials have not confirmed Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun's (鄭麗君) U.S. presence, though Cho's remarks indirectly confirm the negotiation team's location, with parliament noting Cheng and lead negotiator Yang Jen-ni's (楊珍妮) absence for official duties abroad. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30.513)
