The Trump administration is reportedly in talks with Taiwan on a trade deal that could see Taiwan invest in the training of US workers in chip manufacturing, among other industries.
Under the agreement, Taiwanese companies like TSMC, the world’s top contract chip maker, will invest additional capital and deploy workers to grow their US operations, including training U.S. staff.
The deal occurs as TSMC has recently faced challenges in finding qualified workers for its U.S. projects.
Currently, Taiwan’s exports to the U.S. face a 20% tariff, with Taipei negotiating to lower this rate as part of a broader deal with Washington.
Semiconductors, crucial for many high-tech products, are exempt from tariffs while the U.S. focuses on building domestic capacity.
Taiwan’s reported total U.S. investment pledged would be smaller than that of its main regional competitors and would also include support for developing science park infrastructure based on Taiwanese expertise.
It remains unclear when the Taiwan deal might be finalized or what specific terms would be included in the final agreement.
White House spokesman Kush Desai told reporters today: “Until announced by President Trump, reports about potential trade deals are speculative.”
Trump has previously admitted that skilled foreign workers could be needed to train U.S. workers.
By CEO NA Editorial Staff
