Taiwan preparing for trade negotiations by removing import barriers

On August 28, 2020, Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-Wen announced the government’s critical decision to ease the restrictions on the import of beef from U.S. cattle aged 30 months or older and pork with permissible raptopamine residue levels, both effective January 1, 2021. The move will provide greater access for farmers and ranchers across the United States to Taiwan’s meat markets, and for Taiwan’s consumers to high-quality U.S. meat products

At this very moment, U.S.-Taiwan relations are at their strongest level in decades, with two-way trade also playing a significant and critical role.

Taiwan is America’s 9th largest trading partner and 7th largest agricultural export destination. Its current restrictions on U.S. beef and pork imports are stricter than international standards, which are an obstacle to broadening bilateral economic cooperation. Jerry Chang

Director General

Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Denver

President Tsai emphasized that the decision was made based on comprehensive assessment. It is consistent with Taiwan’s overall national interest and future strategic development goals.

By taking this major step to adopt international standards, Taiwan is displaying its determination to resolve the issue and move forward with negotiating a Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) with the U.S.

A fair and reciprocal BTA between the U.S. and Taiwan will further strengthen two-way trade, enabling U.S. businesses to gain a competitive edge in Taiwan’s market. We trust it is an ideal timing to initiate the process of negotiations after the removal of the barriers.

We are therefore encouraging all interested parties in the U.S. to look ahead to the exciting prospect of the recent development surrounding beef and pork products, as well as to show support for the many opportunities a trade agreement is sure to promise for a wide range of U.S. businesses.

The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Denver represents Taiwan’s interest in Colorado and five Midwestern states. The Office promotes bilateral relations between Taiwan and this region of the U.S., and provides consular services including renewing passports, issuing visas and authenticating documents.

Visit the TECO Denver website at:

roc-taiwan.org/usden/index.html, Facebook

@tecodenver (fb.com/tecodenver) or Twitter @TECO_Denver.