China Slams Taiwan's Response to US Tariffs, Accuses DPP of Prioritizing US Interests

A spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, Zhu Fenglian, commented on the US imposing a 20 percent "reciprocal tariff" on Taiwan, exceeding the rates on Japan and South Korea. She also addressed remarks by Taiwan's regional leader, Lai Ching-te, suggesting the tariff rate could be negotiable with a potential $400 billion investment pledge to the US. Zhu stated that Taiwan residents and industries are deeply disappointed by the response of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities.

Zhu criticized the DPP authorities for prioritizing appeasement of the US, accusing them of selling out Taiwan's interests by offering substantial funds without hesitation. She questioned the impact of a $400 billion investment, equivalent to half of Taiwan's annual GDP, on the Taiwanese people. She argued that Taiwan could have strengthened economic ties with the mainland to enhance its economic resilience and ability to withstand risks. Instead, she claimed, the DPP authorities, driven by a desire for "Taiwan independence," have disregarded the island's economy and livelihoods.

The spokesperson warned the DPP authorities that currying favor with the US would be fruitless. She highlighted widespread discontent in Taiwan regarding the tariff rate, citing a poll indicating low satisfaction levels. The US tariff measures have severely impacted Taiwan's auto market, leading to a significant decline in tax revenue. Officials attributed the drop to uncertainty surrounding the tariffs, which also dampened new car registrations and negatively affected investment, consumption, and housing confidence.

An expert attributed the DPP authorities' failure in tariff talks to abandoning economic fundamentals and severing trade relations with the mainland. They argued that Taiwan could have used its economic relationship with the mainland as leverage in negotiations with the US. However, the DPP authorities' refusal to cooperate with the mainland led to the disappointing outcome. The expert further stated that the US seeks to acquire funds and technology from Taiwan, and the DPP authorities are complying with these demands.

Zhu also noted that the DPP authorities prioritize party interests, showing deference to the US while ignoring the challenges faced by domestic businesses under heavy duties. She accused the DPP authorities of undermining Taiwan's business environment and development space by pushing for "decoupling" and disrupting cross-Straits economic cooperation. When asked about Lai Ching-te's declining approval ratings, Zhu said that Lai has intensified his promotion of "Taiwan independence" rhetoric, worsened social divisions, suppressed cross-Straits exchanges, and undermined peace and stability. She concluded that these actions, driven by political self-interest, are unpopular and run counter to public opinion.