Taiwan-U.S. tariff talks expected: FM

Taipei, April 9 (CNA) The Taiwanese government is planning to engage in tariff negotiations with the United States and has been exchanging information with Washington, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) said on Wednesday after the Trump administration imposed sweeping tariffs on many countries, not sparing Taipei.

"We've been in ongoing contact with the U.S. side, and they've officially acknowledged our outreach," Lin told reporters following a press event. "Taiwan has been included in their list for upcoming trade talks."

The U.S. imposed a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan, a nation that, in 2024, ranked as its seventh-largest trading partner, with total goods traded estimated at US$158.6 billion.

Lin did not provide a timeline for negotiations but noted that the two sides are currently exchanging information, with the U.S. requesting additional data from Taiwan, which the government is in the process of providing.

He also mentioned that the discussions may extend beyond tariffs, highlighting that Taiwan's investments and purchases -- such as the procurement of Alaskan natural gas as mentioned by U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent -- could help reduce the U.S. trade deficit with Taiwan.

In 2024, the United States recorded a goods trade deficit of $73.9 billion with Taiwan. This represents a 54.6% increase from the previous year.

U.S. exports to Taiwan rose by $2.4 billion to $42.3 billion last year, while Taiwan's exports to the U.S. increased by a much higher figure of $28.5 billion to reach $116.3 billion.

Meanwhile, officials familiar with the matter revealed that Taiwan's negotiation team, led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君), remained in Taiwan as communications continued with the U.S.

The team includes representatives from national security, foreign affairs, and trade sectors. The government added that it is preparing strategies to support small and medium-sized enterprises in Taiwan that might be badly affected by the tariffs and will strengthen global partnerships, particularly in high-tech industries.

Officials also noted that while Taiwan is open to addressing non-tariff trade issues raised by the U.S., it will need to carefully consider national health and food security concerns.