TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan and the United States aim to finalize a tariff agreement by month's end, POLITICO reported Thursday (Nov. 13). The U.S. requests Taiwan invest between US$350 billion and US$550 billion (around NT$10.9-17.1 trillion), according to the Executive Yuan (行政院), Taiwan's cabinet. Taiwan has a distinct investment model emphasizing independent planning and government financial support, differing from U.S.-Japan and U.S.-South Korea approaches.
Executive Yuan Spokesperson Michelle Lee (李慧芝) confirmed that day that Taiwan seeks to lower reciprocal tariffs without exceeding most-favored-nation rates. Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 affects semiconductors and derivative products, Lee stated. Taiwan pursues the most favorable treatment for businesses investing in the United States.
Lee explained Taiwan's model encourages autonomous company investment strategies with government financial guarantees and government-to-government cooperation. Both negotiation teams completed fifth-round in-person consultations in late September, Lee noted. Teams now conduct video meetings and exchange written documents to build consensus.
Negotiations began April 11 following former President Trump's tariff announcement and show significant progress. President Lai Ching-te (賴清德) describes talks as missing a final push toward month-end agreement completion. Stakeholders anticipate the outcome will significantly impact Taiwan's U.S. investment landscape. ◼ (At time of reporting, US$1 equals approximately NT$31)