Taiwan Responds: NDC Unveils Strategies to Counter US Tariffs and Boost Local Business

Navigating Trade Tensions: Taiwan's National Development Council Launches Support for Businesses Facing US Reciprocal Tariffs

Taipei, April 4 – In response to escalating trade pressures, Taiwan's National Development Council (NDC) has announced comprehensive support measures designed to assist local businesses in adapting to rising U.S. tariffs. Many Taiwanese firms operating in Southeast Asia are facing significantly higher reciprocal duties than those in Taiwan, leading them to consider reshoring production back to their home country.

At a recent news conference, NDC Minister Liu Chin-ching (劉鏡清) outlined the planned measures, which encompass improving the investment environment, fostering innovation, and helping industries build new competitive advantages. These initiatives are aimed at fortifying Taiwan's economic resilience in the face of evolving trade dynamics.

This announcement follows U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to impose a 32 percent reciprocal tariff on Taiwanese goods, prompting Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) to unveil a substantial NT$88 billion package. This comprehensive package encompasses nine policy areas and 20 specific initiatives, all geared towards helping Taiwanese exporters effectively manage associated risks and adapt to the new trade landscape.

Minister Liu further emphasized that the government will actively assist businesses in expanding their domestic operations or restructuring their supply chains to assemble products within Taiwan. This support is contingent upon firms adhering to the rules-of-origin requirements, which are crucial for securing more favorable tariff treatment from the U.S.

Additional efforts will concentrate on providing support in key areas such as talent acquisition and development, facilitating land access for businesses, bolstering research and development, and utilizing national investment funds to stimulate innovation and generate high-paying job opportunities. The NDC confirmed that a detailed plan outlining these initiatives will be released soon.