TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Wu Tung-liang (吳東亮), chairman of the Chinese National Association of Industry and Commerce (CNAIC, 工商協進會), Taiwan's influential business lobby group, addressed the association's conference Friday (July 25). Wu highlighted that Taiwan's trade representatives have traveled to the United States for the fourth time in ongoing negotiations. The business leader expressed optimism about securing more favorable tariff rates than those currently imposed on Japan and Korea.
Wu emphasized that tariffs could significantly increase export costs for Taiwan's manufacturers. The business leader advised companies to diversify markets and enhance technological capabilities. Wu urged Taiwan's government to provide assistance through subsidies and financing programs. He expressed measured optimism about Taiwan's export momentum, noting that despite challenges from exchange rate fluctuations and tariffs, the island's export strength remains robust with no cause for excessive pessimism about second-half economic performance.
Wu highlighted that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (TSMC, 台積電), the world's largest contract chipmaker, continued growing in the second quarter. This performance demonstrated Taiwan's formidable export strength in the global technology sector. The chairman praised Taiwan's proven economic resilience, asserting the island's economy remains worthy of international trust. Wu concluded by emphasizing the importance of accepting election results and expressing hope for sustained economic revitalization following electoral periods. ◼