A hearing on the future of U.S.-Taiwan trade was held Sept. 14 by the Committee on Ways and Means of the U.S. House of Representatives to strengthen the bilateral partnership in light of authoritarian expansion by China.
During his opening remarks, Committee Chair Rep. Richard Neal said that since U.S. trade policies start with actions taken in Congress, the bipartisan hearing will begin to build a public record on the prospects of two-way trade. The move is expected to lead to a deeper economic relationship with one of the U.S.’ most important partners, he added.
Praising Taiwan as a beacon of democracy in Asia, Neal said Taiwan and Ukraine both have faced incredible pressure from their authoritarian neighbors. The chairman said he and his colleagues unequivocally stand with the two democratic partners.
According to Neal, one way to extend such support to Taiwan is by enhancing economic engagement. The path forward is bright, Neal said, adding that the U.S. is ready to step up to the plate to deliver for Taiwan, the American people and democracies across the world.
During the hearing, many members of the House showed their support for expanding trade ties with Taiwan.
Rep. Keven Brady said it is more important than ever to intensify the trade relationship with Taiwan as China continues its economic aggression across the Asia-Pacific and beyond, while Rep. Adrian Smith highlighted the importance of a proactive trade agenda with Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific. Rep. Judy Chu added that trade with Taiwan supports 188,000 jobs in the U.S.
Rep. Suzan DelBene said she is committed to strengthening ties and advancing mutual trade goals with Taiwan, as well as promoting innovation and economic growth for U.S. workers and businesses.
Several participants also voiced strong support for a trade agreement with Taiwan, with Rep. Tom Suozzi stating that such a pact will benefit U.S. companies, bolster Taiwan’s economic security and underscore the need for stability in the region. (SFC-E)
Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw