Taipei [Taiwan] – Taiwan President William Lai has announced plans to expand the country’s investment in the United States while strengthening partnerships with democratic allies to build resilient global semiconductor supply chains, Taipei Times reported.
Speaking at a press conference in Taipei following his first high-level national security meeting of the year, Lai emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to acting prudently, enhancing communication with the US, and fostering greater mutual understanding.
Taiwan Responds to US Tariff Threats on Semiconductors
Lai’s statements come amid renewed threats from US President Donald Trump to impose tariffs on Taiwanese semiconductor imports. Addressing these concerns, Lai underscored Taiwan’s efforts to collaborate with the US and other democratic nations to create a more diversified semiconductor supply chain.
“A resilient and diversified semiconductor supply chain will serve as the foundation for a global AI chip alliance, ensuring industries in democratic nations have access to high-end chips,” Lai said.
He added that such collaboration would drive a new era of growth for the international semiconductor industry.
Strengthening Taiwan-US Trade and Investment
Lai reaffirmed Taiwan’s importance as an indispensable partner in strengthening US manufacturing and consolidating its technological leadership.
“Taiwan will continue to highlight the mutual benefits of bilateral cooperation, maintaining close communication and negotiations with Washington,” he said.
He also emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to balancing trade with the US through increased investments and the purchase of American goods.
Taiwan’s Investment in the US Surpasses China
According to Lai, Taiwan has significantly boosted its investments in the US, reaching a total of USD 100 billion and creating nearly 400,000 jobs as of last year. This far exceeds Taiwan’s investment in China, which accounted for only 8% last year, compared to 11% in 2023.
Lai stressed that Taiwan would further enhance collaboration with the US in AI and semiconductor development, ensuring stability in the global chip market.
Trump’s Push for Increased Defense Spending by Taiwan
Lai’s remarks followed Trump’s statements in Washington, where the former US president reaffirmed his stance on tariffs targeting chip imports from Taiwan.
Taiwan has consistently ranked among the top 10 countries contributing to the US trade deficit. During his presidential campaign, Trump called on Taiwan to increase its defense budget and contribute more toward security cooperation with the US.
With geopolitical tensions and global supply chain security at the forefront, Taiwan’s proactive investment strategy aims to solidify its position as a key player in the future of semiconductor manufacturing and AI development.