Taiwan Farmers Warn Of US Import Impact

Taiwanese government officials are questioning US demands for zero-tariff access for American agricultural products, specifically mentioning strawberries and potatoes. Agriculture Minister Chen Chun-jai stated that agriculture is not a political tool and farmers are not easily incited. His comments follow reports that the government might relax imports of sprouted potatoes following the US-Taiwan trade agreement. He alleged the government is using 500 billion TWD in investments to exchange for tariff concessions. Chao claimed this process has already led to the opening of markets for US potatoes and peanuts. He further suggested that US pork and beef might also be included in future agreements. He noted that US peanuts cost less than 50 TWD per kilogram compared to over 100 TWD for Taiwanese peanuts. Taiwanese agricultural sectors face uncertainty regarding zero-tariff exemptions for 261 products previously announced in February. Current concerns involve 30 specific items including peanuts, duck meat, goose meat, grapes, and citrus. The impact of these trade terms on farmer rights is being questioned following the initial positive reception of the exemptions. The Ministry of Economic Affairs has met with small and medium enterprises to discuss reciprocal tariffs. However, the Ministry of Agriculture has been criticized for failing to communicate these negotiation details to local farmers or agricultural counties.