With U.S.-Taiwan tariff negotiations in the final document-exchange stage, Taiwan's top trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni (楊珍妮) addressed rumors circulating about Taiwan’s investment amount into the U.S. and talent-training deals. Yang says the investment model and amounts have not yet been decided, and that similarly, Taiwan has not agreed to any technical training assistance. 

Speaking before the Legislature Monday, Yang explained that, because Taiwan’s economic structure is highly dependent on trade, there is a large deficit, 90% of which comes from semiconductors, electric components and ICT products. Therefore, Taiwan is negotiating to obtain most favored nation (MFN) status under Section 232 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act. The goal is a reduced tariff rate, and promises that tariffs won’t stack.

Once the Section 232 negotiations are complete, they should also swiftly come to a close. Yang says she believes that Taiwan is “very likely” to achieve its goals.

Regarding foreign media reports claiming Taiwan would assist the U.S. in training semiconductor personnel, Yang said these claims were not part of negotiations. Other rumors spread by foreign media reported that Taiwanese investments into the U.S. would total US$400 billion. Taiwan’s negotiating team has only said that the number is still being discussed, and could not yet be confirmed.

This new round of tariff negotiations would be the sixth to date, and Yang says Taiwan is hoping to conclude talks by the end of the year.