Taipei, Taiwan (AP) – On Tuesday, Taiwan’s president commented on the ongoing trade tensions between the US and Taiwan, describing them as “friction between friends” amidst ongoing tariff negotiations with Washington.
President Donald Trump recently implemented a 32% tariff on all imports from Taiwan, part of the tax regulations affecting all US trading partners introduced last month.
In a temporary measure, tariffs on products from Taiwan have been lowered to 10% for 90 days, allowing time for trade discussions. Representatives from both sides engaged in their first discussions last month, with plans for further talks in the coming weeks.
During a speech that highlighted his first year in office, President Lai Qingte emphasized Taiwan’s strategies to mitigate the impacts of US tariffs and military threats from China. He maintained a positive tone despite the pressure from tariffs.
“The US and Taiwan have historically been supportive of one another’s growth,” he stated. “Friction is expected between friends, but ultimately, we can find common ground.”
“Even when opinions differ, a foundation of trust and open dialogue facilitates better understanding and deepens friendship,” he added.
The US has long been Taiwan’s most steadfast informal ally, particularly in light of China’s military threats to reassert control over Taiwan if deemed necessary. Washington is legally obligated to provide Taiwan with defense means.
Lai reiterated Taiwan’s commitment to strengthening national defense, standing “shoulder to shoulder” with allies through both foreign military procurement and local arms development to maintain a deterrent posture.
“We aim to prevent conflict while adequately preparing for peace,” he asserted.
He expressed openness to dialogue with Beijing, stating, “Taiwan is eager to engage in interactions and cooperation with China,” provided there is mutual respect and dignity.
Taiwan’s economy is bolstered by significant semiconductor companies supplying microchips globally, along with electronics, advanced manufacturing, and green technology firms.
Lai emphasized the importance of foreign investment in Taiwan, referencing recent announcements from Northern Taiwan’s tech giant Nvidia about new offices in the region.
Nvidia’s CEO, Jensen Huang, expressed his company’s intention to collaborate with chipmaker TSMC, the tech leader Foxconn, and the Taiwanese government to establish an artificial intelligence supercomputer on the island.
Additionally, he backed increased investment from US companies in Taiwan.
In March, TSMC reacted to Trump’s tariff threats by promising a new $100 billion investment in the US, with production commencing late last year, in addition to a prior commitment exceeding $65 billion for three factories in Arizona.
However, Lai’s controversial proposal to eliminate tariffs on US goods “based on mutual relations” has sparked protests from Taiwanese farmers recently.
Rai also expressed “deepest condolences” to the families affected by a tragic incident involving a driver who struck pedestrians on Monday in New Taipei, pledging a swift investigation into the tragedy that has deeply affected the 23 million residents of this autonomous region.
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Associated Press video journalist Johnson Lai contributed to this report from Taipei, Taiwan.
Source: apnews.com