Taiwan wants more time to explain tariff position to US

台灣希望有更多時間向美國解釋關稅立場

Economics minister hopes Taiwan benefits if other countries reach agreements first


TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwan needs more time to clarify its position on tariffs and trade barriers in ongoing talks with the US, Minister of Economic Affairs Kuo Jyh-huei (郭智輝) said Saturday.

The Trump administration in April announced a 32% tariff on imports from Taiwan, triggering a 90-day discussion period during which a basic 10% tariff would apply. With the period set to end in July, questions have emerged about how Taiwan will be affected.

A key factor is the outcome of negotiations between the US and other trade partners such as Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and the European Union, Kuo said in an interview with FTV. If those talks yield results, it could make it easier for Taiwan to conduct its own discussions, he said, per CNA.

Kuo acknowledged that significant uncertainty remains. He noted that while the Trump administration has focused on trade deficits, a large portion of Taiwan’s surplus stems from AI server exports. Taiwan currently accounts for 90% of global AI server production, he said.

Manufacturers have responded with flexibility, including shifting some production to Mexico. However, Kuo said, this has extended tariff-related concerns to parts suppliers as well.

Traditional manufacturing remains an area of concern, though only 23% of its exports go to the US, according to Kuo. He added that the government is working to help businesses lower production costs, relocate manufacturing, and seek new orders from markets beyond the US.