US and Taiwan sign ‘pivotal’ deal to cut trade tariffs
World • 2d ago
**Taiwan Scores Big in US Trade Deal**
The United States and Taiwan have finalised a groundbreaking trade agreement that promises to increase trade and economic cooperation between the two nations. This historic deal is set to significantly boost Taiwan's economy, making its products more competitive in the US market. In exchange, Taiwan has agreed to invest a whopping $85 billion in the US energy, aircraft, and equipment sectors.
Under the agreement, the general tariff on Taiwanese goods will be reduced from 20 percent to 15 percent, putting it on par with other Asian trade partners like South Korea and Japan. This means that Taiwanese businesses can now export more products to the US without facing hefty tariffs, creating new opportunities for growth and expansion. The US, on the other hand, will exempt a wide range of Taiwanese goods from tariffs, including pineapples, ginseng, and even bubble tea ingredients.
Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te hailed the agreement as a "pivotal" moment for the island's economy, saying it will make Taiwanese products more price-competitive in the US market. He also revealed that Taiwan has secured tariff exemptions for over 2,000 products, taking the average tariff rate down to 12.3 percent.
This agreement is particularly significant for Taiwan's chip industry, which drives over 20 percent of its GDP. While the deal does not include specific commitments from Taiwan to invest in the US chip industry, Taiwanese firms have already pledged to invest $250 billion in the sector. This investment is expected to further boost trade and economic cooperation between the two nations.
The US Trade Representative, Jamieson Greer, said the agreement will "significantly enhance the resilience of our supply chains, particularly in high-technology sectors." This is a win-win for both countries, as it will not only increase trade and economic cooperation but also enhance national security interests.
In conclusion, this trade deal between the US and Taiwan is a significant step forward in strengthening economic ties between the two nations. As Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said, this agreement will not only make Taiwanese products more competitive in the US market but also pave the way for Taiwanese brands to enter international markets. With this deal, both countries are poised to reap the benefits of increased trade and economic cooperation, creating a brighter future for their citizens.