Trade deal to help firms expand footprint in US: vice premierBy Fion Khan / Staff writer, with agenciesThe “Taiwan model” trade agreement reached with Washington is not about relocating supply chains, but expanding industrial capabilities in the US, Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君) said today. Photo: Tu Chien-jung, Taipei TimesThe two sides are expected to sign a reciprocal trade agreement in the coming weeks, completing the “final mile” of the negotiations, she said. Taiwan has also secured preferential treatment for products including auto parts, wooden furniture and aviation components, she said, describing these as significant benefits for suppliers. The agreements cover tariffs, non-tariff trade barriers, trade facilitation, economic security, labor protections, environmental safeguards and business opportunities, as well as two-way investment, she said. "In the past we said: 'Taiwan can help,'" Cheng said, referring to Taiwan's efforts to help the international community during the COVID-19 pandemic and other crises.

Source: Taipei Times January 20, 2026 10:13 UTC