TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) declared Tuesday (Aug. 12) that Taiwan aims to secure fairer tariff outcomes amid ongoing trade negotiations. The government plans to expand support for industries most affected by the tariffs while ensuring comprehensive public understanding and legislative backing. Cho's remarks signal a renewed push for transparency in Taiwan's trade policy negotiations.
The Legislative Yuan, Taiwan's parliament and highest legislative body, summoned Premier Cho and ministry heads earlier that day to present recovery reports on Typhoon Danas and July 28 heavy rainfall damage. Cho reiterated that negotiations for fairer tariffs remain the government's priority. He assured lawmakers that the Executive Yuan, Taiwan's highest administrative organ, would inform the public before concluding any negotiations.
Cho acknowledged that inadequate explanations of original tariff rates and reciprocal measures had unwittingly created misunderstandings between the public and the Executive Yuan. The premier accepted responsibility for the communication failures that have strained public trust in the government's trade negotiations. He emphasized the urgent need for self-reflection within administrative agencies to prevent similar miscommunications in future policy discussions.
Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君) clarified a day earlier that Taiwan-U.S. tariff negotiations are not conducted in secrecy, following international trade practices that limit disclosure until agreements are finalized. Cheng announced plans to create an online platform for public inquiries about the negotiations. She expressed willingness to address the Legislative Yuan and confirmed that any tariff agreement will undergo legislative review before implementation. ◼