Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te will convene a National Security Council meeting on Friday to address potential new U.S. tariffs and broader relations with Washington, according to sources cited by Reuters. The presidential office has not commented on the matter.
The meeting follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent directive to his economic team to develop reciprocal tariffs on countries imposing taxes on American imports. This move raises concerns about escalating global trade tensions, affecting both allies and competitors.
Taiwan, a key player in global trade and a major supplier of semiconductors, closely monitors U.S. economic policies, as shifts in trade strategy could impact its export-driven economy. Increased tariffs on Taiwanese goods may have ripple effects on the island’s industries, particularly in tech and manufacturing.
The Biden administration has previously scrutinized supply chain dependencies on Taiwan, given its dominance in chip production. Any new trade policies could reshape Taiwan-U.S. economic ties and influence broader Indo-Pacific relations.
As discussions unfold, analysts anticipate Taiwan will seek measures to mitigate potential economic disruptions while reinforcing its partnership with Washington.