Planned negotiations with the United States will focus on reducing the broad tariffs announced by U.S. President Donald Trump on goods from Taiwan, according to Taiwan's chief trade negotiator, Yang Jen-ni, on 4th April.

At a press conference in Taipei, Yang declined to specify the government's negotiation strategy with the Trump administration, stating only: "We have some plans."

The primary aim is to reduce the tariffs applied to most Taiwanese exports or to narrow their scope in order to minimise the impact on Taiwanese industries and businesses and support their ability to compete internationally. Yang also serves as a minister without portfolio in the Executive Yuan.

On 2nd April, President Trump announced a 32% "reciprocal tariff" on most Taiwanese goods entering the U.S., effective from 9 April.

Some categories, such as copper, pharmaceuticals, and semiconductors, are exempt from the measure.

In addition, Taiwanese automotive parts will be subject to a 25% import duty. This tariff is expected to be implemented before 3 May, as part of the U.S. administration's broader policy on foreign automotive imports.

The Office of Trade Negotiations, headed by Yang, stated that Taipei will highlight ongoing efforts to reduce Taiwan's trade surplus with the United States. These efforts include encouraging investment in the U.S. by Taiwanese companies and increasing the purchase of American raw materials.

Yang noted that the government would take into account some of the factors cited by the Trump administration as justification for similar tariffs imposed on other countries. These include issues related to tariffs, currency policy, and government subsidies.

Yang declined to comment on whether Taiwan might refer to Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (TSMC) reported joint venture with Intel Corporation during the upcoming discussions with U.S. officials.

Media sources reported that TSMC and Intel had reached a preliminary agreement to form a joint venture to operate Intel's factories. However, both companies have declined to make public statements.

Yang added that any overseas investments by Taiwanese firms must be reviewed and approved by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA).

TSMC's new investment plan, valued at US$100 billion, involves the construction of three semiconductor fabrication plants, a research and development centre, and two packaging facilities in Arizona. This is in addition to its earlier US$65 billion investment, which was approved by the MOEA's Department of Investment Review in late March.

The Cabinet has not provided specific details regarding the timing of bilateral negotiations or the officials who will be involved. Premier Cho Jung-tai stated that the Office of Trade Negotiations and a working group established after President Trump's return to office would coordinate efforts.

According to the Cabinet, the working group - led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun and Secretary-General Kung Ming-hsin - is responsible for managing trade and economic matters between Taiwan and the United States.