TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan is prepared to enter negotiations with the United States over potential tariffs, Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰), the head of Taiwan's executive branch of government, announced Tuesday (April 15). The declaration comes in response to President Donald Trump's recent overhaul of American trade policy. Cho emphasized Taiwan's eagerness to communicate its position while urging citizens to stand behind the government's efforts.
Speaking before a legislative interpellation session, where officials regularly face questioning from legislators, Premier Cho assured legislators that comprehensive contingency plans have been developed to protect domestic industries throughout the negotiation process. He highlighted that Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun (鄭麗君) is coordinating efforts between Taiwan's dedicated trade negotiation office and national security officials to present a unified position.
Preliminary discussions have already taken place via video conference between Taiwanese and American officials, according to Cho. The premier emphasized Taiwan's commitment to securing balanced and fair trade arrangements while calling for public patience during what could be protracted negotiations. Taiwan's government stands ready to resume talks whenever U.S. officials are prepared to continue the dialogue, with twin goals of protecting domestic industries and establishing more equitable commercial ties.
President Trump's April 2 announcement outlined a tiered tariff structure ranging from 11% to 50% targeting specific nations, alongside a universal 10% import duty. Implementation of the full tariff schedule has been postponed for 90 days, with only the baseline 10% rate currently in effect. In anticipation of potential economic disruption, Taiwan's government has already unveiled an NT$88 billion (approximately US$2.7 billion) industry support package designed to mitigate the impact on Taiwanese businesses. ★