Taiwan Prepared for ‘Direct’ and ‘Effective’ Tariff Talks with U.S.: Premier

Taipei: Premier Cho Jung-tai (???) expressed readiness for "direct talks" with Washington following U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to place a 90-day hold on broad tariffs targeting Taiwanese goods. According to Focus Taiwan, Premier Cho, through Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee (???), emphasized the government's plan to "seize the time and opportunity to engage in direct and effective negotiations with the U.S.," aiming to protect Taiwan's interests and its businesses. Lee refrained from specifying the timeline and participants of the talks but assured that the public would be informed of any developments. The negotiation team from Taiwan, led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (???), comprises members from the Office of Trade Negotiations, national security, and foreign affairs teams. This move follows Trump's announcement to pause the implementation of a 32 percent levy on most Taiwanese imports, opting instead for reduced 10 percent duties, excluding China. In response to the tariff situation, the Cabinet finalized a NT$88 billion (US$2.67 billion) support plan to alleviate the anticipated impact on Taiwanese exporters and the economy. The plan includes NT$70 billion for initiatives such as reducing loan interest rates, market diversification, and job market stabilization, with an additional NT$18 billion designated for the agricultural sector's financial aid. Details on accessing these funds will be made available on April 14, as stated by the Cabinet. Premier Cho had previously indicated that the support plan would rely on a special budget requiring legislative approval. However, the Cabinet revealed its intention to utilize its second reserve fund and other financial sources while drafting a special budget bill.