TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's agricultural delegation signed letters of intent Thursday (Sept. 18) to purchase over US$10 billion (around NT$300.95 billion) in U.S. agricultural products over four years. Minister of Agriculture (MOA, 農業部) Chen Junne-jih (陳駿季) led the Capitol Hill ceremony, marking a 25% increase from previous agreements amid ongoing tariff negotiations.
Chen emphasized Taiwan's role as a crucial market for U.S. agricultural exports, noting imports exceeded US$3.7 billion (around NT$111.35 billion) last year. The delegation, divided into three groups, will visit eight states exploring new cooperation opportunities. Soybean and corn groups will visit Arkansas, Ohio, and Indiana, while wheat groups head to South Dakota, Montana, and Idaho, and beef groups travel to Florida and Texas.
Chen highlighted the biennial nature of these visits, with procurement rising from US$1.9 billion (around NT$57.18 billion) annually to US$2.5 billion (around NT$75.24 billion), marking 25% growth over five years. He stated the expansion reflects industry decisions based on future demand, not government funding, hoping continuous quality purchases will aid tariff progress.
Taiwan's representative to the U.S., Alexander Yui (俞大㵢), stressed securing strategic supplies amid Taiwan Strait tensions, calling purchases from allies the most reasonable choice. Attendees included Florida Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, senior Sen. Chuck Grassley, and Idaho Sen. Jim Risch, chair of the United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$30.095)