Taiwan Sends Top Negotiators to US for Final Round of Trade Deal Talks

Post by : Saif Nasser

Taiwan has sent its top trade officials to the United States for the final meeting to complete a new trade and tariff agreement between the two sides. The deal, which was outlined last month, is expected to lower tariffs and increase large-scale investment, especially in high-technology industries. Government officials say the agreement could reshape economic ties between Taiwan and the U.S. for years to come.

According to Taiwan’s cabinet, the delegation includes Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun and chief trade negotiator Yang Jen-ni. They left for the United States to hold what officials described as the last round of talks on the Taiwan–U.S. reciprocal trade agreement. Once the final terms are confirmed and signed, the full details will be released to the public and then sent to Taiwan’s parliament for approval.

One of the most important parts of the deal is a planned tariff cut on Taiwan’s exports to the United States. Under the agreement terms already announced, U.S. tariffs on Taiwanese goods would fall from 20% to 15%. This reduction could make Taiwanese products more competitive in the American market and help exporters increase sales.

The agreement is not only about tariffs. It also includes very large investment promises. Taiwanese companies are expected to invest about $250 billion in the United States in areas such as semiconductor manufacturing, energy projects, and artificial intelligence development. In addition, Taiwan plans to provide another $250 billion in credit guarantees to support further business investment. These are very large numbers and show how serious both sides are about deepening economic cooperation.

Taiwan is already one of the world’s most important semiconductor producers. Its chip companies supply parts that are used in phones, computers, cars, and military equipment. The United States has been trying to secure more chip production within its own borders to reduce supply risks. By encouraging Taiwanese firms to invest in U.S. factories and research centers, Washington hopes to strengthen its technology supply chain.

For Taiwan, closer trade and technology ties with the United States bring both economic and political value. The island runs a large trade surplus with the U.S. and sees the relationship as strategic. Even though the two sides do not have formal diplomatic relations, the United States remains Taiwan’s most important international partner and security supporter. Stronger economic links can also support broader cooperation.

This deal also comes at a time of global trade tension and rising competition in advanced technology. Countries are trying to protect key industries such as chips and AI while also building trusted partner networks. Taiwan’s move shows a strategy of working closely with friendly markets rather than depending too heavily on any single region.

Still, large trade deals often bring debate at home. Lawmakers and industry groups will likely study the final text carefully. Some may ask whether the investment commitments are too large or whether enough protections exist for local industries and workers. That is why parliamentary review will be an important next step after the signing.

If approved, the agreement could mark a new phase in U.S.–Taiwan economic relations. Lower tariffs, bigger investments, and closer technology cooperation would tie the two economies more tightly together. The final meeting in the United States is therefore more than a routine negotiation — it is a key moment that could shape future trade, technology, and strategic alignment between the partners.