The United States is preparing to offer retroactive tariff relief for certain non-semiconductor products from Taiwan, as announced by Taiwan’s Executive Yuan. This move comes after two months of negotiations between Taipei and Washington, conducted under a bilateral investment memorandum of understanding. The new tariff measures are scheduled to take effect starting May 1.
Under the upcoming tariff relief, products such as auto parts, logs, lumber, and wood derivatives will have their tariffs capped at 15 percent. Additionally, steel, aluminum, and copper derivative products, particularly those used in aircraft components, will be exempt from the Section 232 tariffs.
Taiwanese officials have emphasized that these tariff concessions will bolster the international competitiveness of their local industries and facilitate greater access to the U.S. market. This is part of a broader agreement signed earlier this year, which outlines three primary tariff arrangements: a 15 percent reciprocal tariff rate for Taiwan without additional most-favored nation charges, preferential treatment for semiconductor-related products, and relief for non-semiconductor goods currently subject to Section 232 tariffs.
Notably, the United States has not imposed Section 232 tariffs on Taiwanese semiconductor exports and associated products. Nonetheless, Taipei is actively engaging with the U.S. Department of Commerce to expedite the implementation of these new concessions, particularly concerning non-semiconductor sectors.