The Deputy Premier of Taiwan, Cheng Li-Chun, led a government team that completed its first round of substantive economic negotiations with the U.S. in Washington D.C. on May 1, Eastern Time. This round of discussions follows U.S. President Trump's introduction of a reciprocal tariff policy on April 3, entering a 90-day delay period for imposing tariffs.

The Office of Trade Negotiations of the Executive Yuan stated that during the talks, both sides discussed tariffs, non-tariff trade barriers, and various economic cooperation issues extensively in a sincere and harmonious atmosphere. Both sides expressed their mutual expectation to strengthen economic cooperation based on mutual benefits and create more opportunities for industries and economic development.

Cheng emphasized that the Taiwanese and U.S. economies are highly complementary and that deepening cooperation will help optimize both sides' industrial structures and enhance global competitiveness. She also highlighted that continuous open dialogue and mutual understanding can foster greater consensus.

The trade office further noted that the Taiwanese government team involved in these negotiations comprises representatives from the Office of Trade Negotiations, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the Ministry of Agriculture, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Health and Welfare, and the National Security Council. Both Taiwan and the U.S. have agreed to continue close consultations soon and actively seek consensus while exploring further possibilities for deepening cooperation.