讀後心得

U.S. President Trump imposed a 32% tariff on Taiwan. Executive Yuan Premier Su Tseng-chang held a press conference on the afternoon of the 4th to introduce countermeasures and support plans. He emphasized that the government would make stern representations to the U.S. and plans to provide NT$88 billion in assistance to respond to the tariff pressure on Taiwan. Su Tseng-chang expressed apologies to the public and pointed out that the government would evaluate measures to stabilize the economy, with various ministries setting up consultation hotlines to promptly explain the plans to the industry. Facing rising import costs, certain industries, such as tools, medical supplies, and agricultural products, will be affected. The government will strive to reduce tax rates to maintain fair competition. Su Tseng-chang candidly stated that future impacts are unavoidable and urged everyone to be prepared.

U.S. President Trump announced a 32% reciprocal tariff on Taiwan. Executive Yuan Premier Su Tseng-chang held a press conference with relevant ministries on the afternoon of the 4th to explain our response measures. Su Tseng-chang pointed out that he has instructed the Office of Trade Negotiations to quickly assess the unreasonable aspects of this high tariff and will engage in serious negotiations with the U.S. Trade Representative. He also emphasized the need to "actively prepare, effectively manage risks, and expand support for industries," providing an assistance plan of 88 billion, and plans to invite the legislature from both parties next week for a joint discussion on national issues.

During the meeting, Su Tseng-chang expressed his apologies, mentioning that he has been closely monitoring the news released by Trump since the early morning of the 3rd and frankly admitted that the economic situation is unreasonable. He hopes to stabilize the economy and protect people's livelihoods through the assistance plan. Both executive officials repeatedly emphasized the unfairness of the tariffs imposed by the U.S. on Taiwan. After the meeting, the heads of various ministries reported concrete assistance plans covering nine major areas and 20 specific measures.

In regard to potential losses, the Chairman of the Kuomintang pointed out that the 88 billion NT dollars in subsidies seem trivial compared to the 37 billion U.S. dollars Taiwan might potentially lose each year. Su Tseng-chang emphasized that the investment plan for Taiwan promoted in recent years not only attracts Taiwanese businesses to return but also helps to diversify risks. At the same time, the effects will extend to New Southbound countries, the Americas, and Europe. Although facing tariff challenges, the government will assess and continue to provide assistance, especially in the restructuring of corporate supply chains.

The Deputy Minister of Economic Affairs pointed out that Taiwan's industrial products exported to the U.S. could reach 110.2 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. Besides the unannounced semiconductor and pharmaceutical products, the tariffs on other products will range between 25% and 32%. Multiple products, such as graphics cards and servers, are affected, increasing the likelihood of profit decline in the short term, especially in items like automotive parts, which require long-term verification and may impact domestic production.

The Minister of Agriculture mentioned that Taiwan's main export items, such as orchids and tea, face competitive pressure from the international market. The Executive Yuan's Minister without Portfolio emphasized the hope to lower reciprocal tariffs or limit the scope of taxation to secure maximum benefits. Regarding potential social concerns in the future, Su Tseng-chang stated that he would strongly reflect these issues and seek effective adjustments.

Regarding the potential impact on the economy in the future, Su Tseng-chang frankly admitted, "There will definitely be impacts in the future," and promised to further discuss with the President and relevant ministries, hoping to establish confidence among the people on Monday while also urging everyone to prepare for possible shocks.