Taiwan Pushes U.S. Energy Imports, Net-Zero Goals

Taiwan is negotiating with the United States to reduce its trade deficit by increasing imports of U.S. weapons, LNG, oil, and agricultural products. President Lai Ching-te and Taiwan's de facto U.S. ambassador, Alexander Yui, have prioritized expanding U.S. energy imports as part of ongoing tariff talks aimed at achieving a zero-tariff regime and greater energy resilience. These efforts tie into Taiwan's broader strategy to address climate change and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, including major investments in climate adaptation and renewable energy. Taiwan has invested in U.S. energy projects like the Alaska LNG export project, but still faces high tariffs, though a recent 32% tariff has been temporarily suspended. The Taiwanese government is open to lowering reciprocal tariffs, removing non-trade barriers, and encouraging more Taiwanese investment in the U.S. Negotiations between the two countries are reportedly progressing smoothly.