TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen (盧秀燕) announced plans Monday (July 21) to allocate NT$25 million (around US$848,000) to support nine leading industry associations facing new U.S. tariffs that threaten Taiwan's manufacturing sector. The initiative aims to help local manufacturers explore markets beyond America, mitigating the impact of tariff hikes on Taiwan's central industrial hub. Mayor Lu emphasized the urgent need for market diversification as international trade tensions threaten the city's export-dependent economy. The funding represents a proactive response to escalating trade challenges that could significantly impact Taichung's industrial competitiveness in global markets.
Mayor Lu detailed the city's comprehensive strategy to assist businesses facing unstable or higher tariffs during a meeting with the Asia Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce (亞洲台灣商會聯合總會) delegation, Taiwan's influential overseas business network. The fund will enable associations, including those in the machinery and bicycle sectors, to organize overseas visits and exhibitions targeting new markets. She stated the city government will facilitate these associations' familiarization with non-U.S. markets, aiming to reduce tariff impacts through strategic market diversification. The targeted approach focuses on Taichung's key industries that have traditionally relied heavily on American export markets for growth.
Mayor Lu highlighted the Asia Taiwanese Chambers of Commerce's extensive membership, spanning 20 countries or regions across the globe, representing a vast network of business opportunities. She urged the chambers to support Taichung businesses in conducting visits, exhibitions, or securing orders in these diverse markets beyond traditional trading partners. This collaborative effort seeks to strengthen Taichung's economic resilience amid rapidly changing international trade dynamics that challenge traditional export relationships. The partnership leverages Taiwan's diaspora business networks to create new pathways for economic growth and stability.
Mayor Lu reiterated her focus on economic and livelihood issues in response to criticism from Democratic Progressive Party (DPP, 民進黨) Secretary-General Lin Yu-chang (林右昌) regarding her comments during an anti-recall event that drew political controversy. The mayor's emphasis on practical economic solutions reflects her administration's priority of addressing immediate business concerns over political controversies that often dominate Taiwan's public discourse. Her response underscores the ongoing tension between local governance priorities and national political dynamics in Taiwan's current political climate. The exchange highlights how local officials must navigate between serving constituents' economic needs and managing partisan political pressures. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$29.47)