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2017-03-22
中文
President Tsai's remarks at 2017 AmCham Hsie Nian Fan celebration

On the evening of March 22, President Tsai Ing-wen attended the 2017 AmCham Hsie Nian Fan celebration. In her remarks, she affirmed that Taiwan and the US have enjoyed a deep friendship and hoped that the two countries will build an "upgraded" strategic partnership in regional security and greater exchanges in trade and economy.

A transcript of the president's remarks is as follows:

Good evening everyone! First of all I'd like to thank AmCham's Albert Chang for hosting this fine event. I understand it's a full house, it's much more crowded than I thought – and this is testament to AmCham's enduring leadership in Taiwan. 

I'm pleased that my good friend AIT Director Kin Moy is here as well. And with me today we have Secretary-General of our National Security Council Joseph Wu (吳釗燮), and quite a number of our ministers. Initially I wanted to name them one by one, but since there are so many here, why don't you stand up and say hello to the people here (applause). I understand that we also have a lot of officials from the Taiwan government here, I don't know how many of you, but please also stand up (applause).

Since this is the first time I'm joining this event as president, I would like to begin with a few words of appreciation for AmCham Taipei.

For 66 years, this chamber has served as a vital bridge between Taiwan, the United States, and the business communities of our two countries. Your work has been instrumental in bringing us closer together.

For example, every year AmCham leads a "Doorknock" delegation to Washington, DC to meet with US officials, members of Congress, and the business community. 

It's a great opportunity to share Taiwan's success story with the US, and to discuss future cooperation in trade and investment. Without these efforts, the Taiwan-US partnership would not be in the robust health it is in today.

Taiwan and the US enjoy a deep friendship that has stood the test of time. This is not only because we share many of the same values, but we have also forged, through decades of cooperation, a high level of mutual trust as partners.

From the US military defending Taiwan in the 1950s, to the passage of the Taiwan Relations Act in the 1970s, the US has always been the primary force supporting Taiwan and stability in the Taiwan Strait. America's security commitment and arms sales to Taiwan are a key factor in maintaining the cross-strait status quo.

On Taiwan's part, since we embraced freedom and democracy, and became economically prosperous, Taiwan has actively taken on responsibilities and played a constructive role in the region. When it comes to security and development in the Asia-Pacific, there is no doubt that Taiwan and the US share joint responsibilities and common interests.

The US has also been Taiwan's most important economic partner. It was Taiwan's largest trading partner and export market in the 1980s, accounting for nearly half of our exports. Today, the US is still Taiwan's 2nd largest trading partner, with bilateral trade in goods and services reaching US$85 billion. If we include indirect trade through third-parties, the US is still the most important export market for Taiwan.

Taiwan's economy has long been benefitting from exports to the US; but to be clear, our bilateral trade is mutually beneficial. 

Through bilateral trade and investment, Taiwan has created more than 350,000 job opportunities in the US. We are the 15th largest external job creator for the US and the 6th largest in Asia.

But even more importantly: within the global supply chain and especially the ICT sector, an irreplaceable, strategic industrial alliance has emerged between American and Taiwanese firms and their subsidiaries in third countries. 

This alliance has brought an array of American brands and products to people all over the world, and tremendous profits to the US. It's no exaggeration to say that such cooperation is a powerful force behind "Buy America".

Looking back on our decades-long friendship and partnership, I am confident to say that Taiwan is a crucial and irreplaceable security and economic partner for the US.

A little more than 2 months ago, a new American administration took office. With this, we have entered a new stage of Taiwan-US relations. 

We hope to build an "upgraded" strategic relationship between our two countries. This includes a more strategic partnership in regional security, more comprehensive cooperation, and greater mutual trust. I am confident that we can achieve these objectives.

My confidence is based on the following:

First, Taiwan is ready and prepared to play a more proactive role in ensuring regional peace and collective security. 

In a few hours' time, our Representative to the US will participate in a ministerial meeting of the Global Coalition working to support efforts in Iraq and Syria. There, he will announce a new commitment of resources to support international mine-removal efforts. This follows Taiwan's donation of a mobile hospital this January to build on the stabilization work already taking place in Iraq.

We also want to ensure that Taiwan makes greater investment into our own defense – and that benefits peace and stability in the region.

We will seek greater cooperation with American defense firms as we build up our indigenous industry, in addition to the continuing purchase of arms necessary for Taiwan's defense. 

Yesterday morning, I unveiled our Indigenous Defense Submarine program in Kaohsiung. It's a large and ambitious undertaking – but one that shows our determination in moving ahead on this agenda.

Two of the other areas are aerospace and cybersecurity. Not only will all of this create further investment opportunities, it will also potentially lead to thousands of new jobs here in Taiwan and in the US as well.

Second, faced with the new US administration's "America First" policy, Taiwan is prepared to make adjustments.

While we believe in free trade, we also support the idea of "fair trade".

As many of you know, I was a trade negotiator for a long time. I firmly believe that through communication and negotiation, trade conflicts and other differences can always be resolved. 

With this in mind, Taiwan and the US should engage in bilateral discussions and trade negotiations as a matter of priority. Both sides should have frank and substantive discussions and work together towards a new bilateral trade agreement. Preferably, of course, FTA type.

In addition, we plan to send the largest-ever delegation to attend the SelectUSA Investment Summit this June. Members of the delegation include some of Taiwan's largest companies. They will actively seek out investment opportunities, particularly in manufacturing and other job creating industries.

In September, we will also organize an agricultural procurement delegation – cementing our status as one of the largest importers of US agricultural products.

Third, the economic reforms that we are undertaking also create greater space for strategic economic cooperation between Taiwan and the US. 

To reduce our export dependence and also to accelerate industrial transformation, my administration has been promoting a "5+2" innovation program. 

Later this week, the Executive Yuan will also announce a forward-looking infrastructure program, which includes government funding as well as large-scale investment by public and private enterprises. We are confident that this program will expand both domestic demand and Taiwan's future competitiveness.

This program offers great opportunities for Taiwanese and American firms to cooperate, and also offers immense potential for the purchase of American goods. 

In addition to this, our Ministry of Economic Affairs has identified six sectors as the basis for further Taiwan-US cooperation. They are steel, semiconductors, petrochemicals, textiles, automobile components, and smart machinery. Our Asia Silicon Valley program in particular is directed at Silicon Valley and other innovation centers in the U.S. for further cooperation.

We are also actively promoting the New Southbound Policy to strengthen our linkages with Southeast and South Asian countries, and Australia and New Zealand in the areas of economics and trade, as well as science, technology and culture. 

The focus is on sharing resources, talents, and markets in order to create greater prosperity for all. Taiwan and the US enjoy a high degree of complementarity when it comes to exploring emerging markets, and especially markets in the Asia-Pacific region. 

If we could deepen our strategic alliance in this area, I believe this will boost American exports as well as growth in both of our economies.

Ladies and gentlemen, in a year where both Taiwan and the US are focusing on the economy, I hope that our concerted efforts will give rise to stronger and more sustained economic growth.

As key players in the Taiwan-US relationship, my administration looks forward to working with both AmCham and its members in a variety of policy areas, to multiply both opportunities and benefits.

Finally, I wish to thank you again for your invitation. I also want to wish AmCham another successful year– whatever you are doing, don't stop. And to AmCham members: if you want to invest more in Taiwan, now is the right time. My administration is more than ready and willing to work with you.

Thank you and have a great evening!

Let me then propose a toast.

President Tsai takes group photos with the attendees of the 2017 AmCham Hsie Nian Fan celebration.
Officials and business people attend the 2017 AmCham Hsie Nian Fan celebration.
President Tsai delivers remarks at the 2017 AmCham Hsie Nian Fan celebration.
President Tsai attends the 2017 AmCham Hsie Nian Fan celebration.
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President Lai pens Bloomberg News article on Taiwan’s response to US reciprocal tariffs
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中文
2025-04-08
President Lai receives credentials from new Tuvalu Ambassador Lily Tangisia Faavae  
On the morning of April 8, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Lily Tangisia Faavae. In remarks, President Lai welcomed the ambassador to her new post and thanked Tuvalu for its long-term support for Taiwan’s international participation. The president also noted that joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. He expressed his hope that we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: It is a great pleasure today to receive the credentials of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu Lily Tangisia Faavae. On behalf of the Republic of China (Taiwan), I extend my warmest welcome to you. Last year, the Republic of China (Taiwan) and Tuvalu celebrated 45 years of diplomatic relations. Prime Minister Feleti Teo visited Taiwan in May last year for the inauguration of myself and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao and again in October for our National Day celebrations. When I visited Tuvalu last December, I was warmly received by the government and people of Tuvalu, and I deeply felt that our two countries were like family. Ambassador Faavae’s posting to Taiwan demonstrates the importance Prime Minister Teo places on our ties. Widely recognized for her exceptional talent, Ambassador Faavae is an outstanding official with extensive experience in public service. Moreover, during her term as Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, she voiced support for Taiwan at the World Health Assembly. I believe that with her assistance, our two nations will further advance cooperation and exchanges. I want to thank the government of Tuvalu for long supporting Taiwan’s international participation. Furthermore, joint efforts between our two countries have produced fruitful results in such areas as medicine and public health, agricultural and fisheries technology, and information and communications technology. Last year, Prime Minister Teo and I signed a joint communiqué on advancing the comprehensive partnership between Taiwan and Tuvalu. Going forward, we will stand together in tackling the challenges we face, including climate change and expanding authoritarianism. And we will continue to deepen our bilateral relations so as to generate even greater well-being for our peoples and promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Pacific region. Once again, I warmly welcome Ambassador Faavae to her new post in Taiwan. Please convey warmest regards from Taiwan to Prime Minister Teo and all of our friends in Tuvalu. I wish you all the best in work and life during your term in Taiwan. Ambassador Faavae then delivered remarks, saying that it is a great honor and privilege to meet with President Lai today as the new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tuvalu to Taiwan, and to present to him her letter of credence. She then extended, on behalf of the government and people of Tuvalu, her warmest greetings and deep respect to the president and people of Taiwan. The letter of credence, she noted, signifies the trust and confidence that her government and governor-general have placed in her to represent their nation and to foster and strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our countries. Ambassador Faavae said that our two countries have enjoyed a longstanding relationship of 45 years based on mutual respect, cooperation, and shared values. She added that we have collaborated, and continue to do so, in such fields as education, health, climate change adaptation and sea level rise mitigation, agriculture, clean energy, and internet connectivity.  Ambassador Faavae pointed out that Tuvalu remains committed to deepening ties with Taiwan and that it values people-to-people connections and our shared Austronesian heritage. She noted that the people of Tuvalu, a small developing nation, have greatly benefited from Taiwan’s advanced technical expertise and diverse financial assistance. She said she believes Tuvalu and Taiwan share a common interest and are united in our efforts and commitment to upholding democracy, peace, stability, and prosperity for our people and making the world better and safer.  Ambassador Faavae stated that as ambassador of Tuvalu to Taiwan, she pledges to work diligently and respectfully to enhance our bilateral relations, promote mutual understanding, and facilitate collaboration in areas of shared concern. The ambassador said she looks forward to collaborating closely with the Taiwan government and other stakeholders to achieve our common objectives and to continue building a more prosperous and harmonious future for our nations. In closing, she thanked President Lai for the opportunity to serve and to further the enduring friendship between our two countries.  
中文
2025-04-06
President Lai delivers remarks on US tariff policy response
On April 6, President Lai Ching-te delivered recorded remarks regarding the impact of the 32 percent tariff that the United States government recently imposed on imports from Taiwan in the name of reciprocity. In his remarks, President Lai explained that the government will adopt five response strategies, including making every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations, adopting a support plan for affected domestic industries, adopting medium- and long-term economic development plans, forming new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements, and launching industry listening tours. The president emphasized that as we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and expressed hope that all parties, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows: My fellow citizens, good evening. The US government recently announced higher tariffs on countries around the world in the name of reciprocity, including imposing a 32 percent tariff on imports from Taiwan. This is bound to have a major impact on our nation. Various countries have already responded, and some have even adopted retaliatory measures. Tremendous changes in the global economy are expected. Taiwan is an export-led economy, and in facing future challenges there will inevitably be difficulties, so we must proceed carefully to turn danger into safety. During this time, I want to express gratitude to all sectors of society for providing valuable opinions, which the government regards highly, and will use as a reference to make policy decisions.  However, if we calmly and carefully analyze Taiwan’s trade with the US, we find that last year Taiwan’s exports to the US were valued at US$111.4 billion, accounting for 23.4 percent of total export value, with the other 75-plus percent of products sold worldwide to countries other than the US. Of products sold to the US, competitive ICT products and electronic components accounted for 65.4 percent. This shows that Taiwan’s economy does still have considerable resilience. As long as our response strategies are appropriate, and the public and private sectors join forces, we can reduce impacts. Please do not panic. To address the reciprocal tariffs by the US, Taiwan has no plans to adopt retaliatory tariffs. There will be no change in corporate investment commitments to the US, as long as they are consistent with national interests. But we must ensure the US clearly understands Taiwan’s contributions to US economic development. More importantly, we must actively seek to understand changes in the global economic situation, strengthen Taiwan-US industry cooperation, elevate the status of Taiwan industries in global supply chains, and with safeguarding the continued development of Taiwan’s economy as our goal, adopt the following five strategies to respond. Strategy one: Make every effort to improve reciprocal tariff rates through negotiations using the following five methods:  1. Taiwan has already formed a negotiation team led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun (鄭麗君). The team includes members from the National Security Council, the Office of Trade Negotiations, and relevant Executive Yuan ministries and agencies, as well as academia and industry. Like the US-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement, negotiations on tariffs can start from Taiwan-US bilateral zero-tariff treatment. 2. To expand purchases from the US and thereby reduce the trade deficit, the Executive Yuan has already completed an inventory regarding large-scale procurement plans for agricultural, industrial, petroleum, and natural gas products, and the Ministry of National Defense has also proposed a military procurement list. All procurement plans will be actively pursued. 3. Expand investments in the US. Taiwan’s cumulative investment in the US already exceeds US$100 billion, creating approximately 400,000 jobs. In the future, in addition to increased investment in the US by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, other industries such as electronics, ICT, petrochemicals, and natural gas can all increase their US investments, deepening Taiwan-US industry cooperation. Taiwan’s government has helped form a “Taiwan investment in the US” team, and hopes that the US will reciprocate by forming a “US investment in Taiwan” team to bring about closer Taiwan-US trade cooperation, jointly creating a future economic golden age.  4. We must eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. Non-tariff barriers are an indicator by which the US assesses whether a trading partner is trading fairly with the US. Therefore, we will proactively resolve longstanding non-tariff barriers so that negotiations can proceed more smoothly. 5. We must resolve two issues that have been matters of longstanding concern to the US. One regards high-tech export controls, and the other regards illegal transshipment of dumped goods, otherwise referred to as “origin washing.” Strategy two: We must adopt a plan for supporting our industries. For industries that will be affected by the tariffs, and especially traditional industries as well as micro-, small-, and medium-sized enterprises, we will provide timely and needed support and assistance. Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) and his administrative team recently announced a package of 20 specific measures designed to address nine areas. Moving forward, the support we provide to different industries will depend on how they are affected by the tariffs, will take into account the particular features of each industry, and will help each industry innovate, upgrade, and transform. Strategy three: We must adopt medium- and long-term economic development plans. At this point in time, our government must simultaneously adopt new strategies for economic and industrial development. This is also the fundamental path to solutions for future economic challenges. The government will proactively cooperate with friends and allies, develop a diverse range of markets, and achieve closer integration of entities in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of industrial supply chains. This course of action will make Taiwan’s industrial ecosystem more complete, and will help Taiwanese industries upgrade and transform. We must also make good use of the competitive advantages we possess in such areas as semiconductor manufacturing, integrated chip design, ICT, and smart manufacturing to build Taiwan into an AI island, and promote relevant applications for food, clothing, housing, and transportation, as well as military, security and surveillance, next-generation communications, and the medical and health and wellness industries as we advance toward a smarter, more sustainable, and more prosperous new Taiwan. Strategy four: “Taiwan plus one,” i.e., new “Taiwan plus the US” arrangements: While staying firmly rooted in Taiwan, our enterprises are expanding their global presence and marketing worldwide. This has been our national economic development strategy, and the most important aspect is maintaining a solid base here in Taiwan. We absolutely must maintain a solid footing, and cannot allow the present strife to cause us to waver. Therefore, our government will incentivize investments, carry out deregulation, and continue to improve Taiwan’s investment climate by actively resolving problems involving access to water, electricity, land, human resources, and professional talent. This will enable corporations to stay in Taiwan and continue investing here. In addition, we must also help the overseas manufacturing facilities of offshore Taiwanese businesses to make necessary adjustments to support our “Taiwan plus one” policy, in that our national economic development strategy will be adjusted as follows: to stay firmly rooted in Taiwan while expanding our global presence, strengthening US ties, and marketing worldwide. We intend to make use of the new state of supply chains to strengthen cooperation between Taiwanese and US industries, and gain further access to US markets. Strategy five: Launch industry listening tours: All industrial firms, regardless of sector or size, will be affected to some degree once the US reciprocal tariffs go into effect. The administrative teams led by myself and Premier Cho will hear out industry concerns so that we can quickly resolve problems and make sure policies meet actual needs. My fellow citizens, over the past half-century and more, Taiwan has been through two energy crises, the Asian financial crisis, the global financial crisis, and pandemics. We have been able to not only withstand one test after another, but even turn crises into opportunities. The Taiwanese economy has emerged from these crises stronger and more resilient than ever. As we face this latest challenge, the government and civil society will work hand in hand, and I hope that all parties in the legislature, both ruling and opposition, will support the measures that the Executive Yuan will take to open up a broader path for Taiwan’s economy. Let us join together and give it our all. Thank you.
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