Taiwan Plans Increased US Natural Gas Imports to Reduce Trade Surplus

Taiwan is actively seeking to increase its imports of U.S. natural gas, particularly from Alaskan sources, as part of efforts to reduce its significant trade surplus with the United States and mitigate potential tariff threats from President Donald Trump. The Taiwanese government, through the state-run CPC Corporation, is negotiating purchase details and exploring shorter shipping routes to avoid sensitive geopolitical areas. This move comes in the context of a record trade surplus of approximately $64.88 billion with the U.S. last year, driven largely by high-tech exports. Taiwan's Economics Minister Kuo Jyh-huei has noted that the country may follow Japan's lead in enhancing energy imports from the U.S. to align with American trade policies. The U.S. accounts for about 10% of Taiwan's total natural gas imports, which are primarily sourced from Australia and Qatar. This strategic shift reflects Taiwan's attempt to sustain its economic interests amid evolving trade dynamics.