讀後心得

In response to the United States imposing a 32% tariff on Taiwan, President Lai Ching-te and Executive Yuan President Cho Jung-tai convened a meeting with representatives from ICT companies and small and medium-sized enterprises to discuss countermeasures. Participants believed that there should be no rush to react, but instead proposed to first establish an industry relief plan and wait to observe the direction of U.S. policy. Additionally, Vice President Hsiao Mei-chin mentioned that negotiations would begin focusing on five main areas, including reducing tariffs, and actively lobbying the U.S. Congress to garner support for tariff reduction. The government also emphasized the importance of listening to industry opinions and seeking diverse response options.

In response to the United States imposing a 32% tariff on Taiwan, the President and the Premier convened more than ten representatives from ICT companies at the official residence for a discussion the day before. This afternoon, they gathered representatives from traditional industries and small and medium-sized enterprises for a second forum. It is understood that during the meeting the day before, participants unanimously agreed that the government should not rush to express an external stance but should first propose a plan to reassure the industry and wait for the right time to act.

In facing the U.S. tariff policy, the President and the Premier discussed strategies with representatives from over ten ICT companies, including TSMC and Foxconn. Participants generally believe that the U.S. tariff policy has not been finalized and that it is necessary to observe further, supporting the government's easing strategy. In addition, the afternoon will continue to gather opinions from traditional industries and small and medium-sized enterprises. The Vice President stated that the government will actively prepare for the next stage of negotiations with the U.S., while also needing to address the issue of trade deficits. In the medium to long term, the government will review and adjust the current international procurement models for energy and raw materials.

Some lawmakers pointed out that if Taiwan can join the CPTPP, it would gain certain institutional protections, but currently, it has not joined, making the situation more awkward. Another lawmaker stated that the tariff issue is still in the negotiation stage and that detailed communication with the U.S. will be conducted after hearing opinions from various sectors. It is reported that aside from negotiating with the U.S., we will also detail Taiwan's procurement and investment plans to the U.S. Congress through various channels to seek support.

Additionally, regarding investments and procurements from states such as Arizona and Alaska that directly benefit from Taiwan, we hope that the governors of these states can appeal to the White House to lower tariffs on Taiwan. The government continues to listen to the industry's opinions internally and seeks various channels to lobby the U.S. externally.