TAIPEI (TVBS News) — New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) demanded Wednesday (Oct. 1) that Taiwan's central government publicly disclose details of ongoing U.S. tariff negotiations. The mayor of Taiwan's most populous city emphasized the critical need for reciprocal principles and comprehensive protective measures to shield domestic industries from potential economic harm.
Hou addressed reporters following a municipal meeting, spotlighting the negotiations' concentration on semiconductor manufacturing allocation and preferential tariff arrangements. The opposition Kuomintang politician called for Taiwan's central government to provide comprehensive explanations of negotiation processes and their far-reaching implications for the island's economy.
Hou emphasized the imperative of informing citizens about which sectors face potential impact before finalizing trade agreements. He urged the government to maintain complete transparency throughout negotiations to prevent public misunderstandings. The mayor demanded robust protective measures to mitigate adverse effects on Taiwan's industries and employment levels.
Hou argued that tariff negotiations directly affect every citizen's interests and urged the government to foster national unity when confronting these economic challenges. The New Taipei mayor stressed that Taiwan's government must prioritize protecting domestic industries and safeguarding citizens' fundamental rights throughout the complex trade discussions.
