9th round of TIFA negotiations conclude in Taipei

2015/10/05

The ninth round of talks between Taiwan and the U.S. under the bilateral Trade and Investment Framework Agreement wrapped up Oct. 1 in Taipei City, with both sides reaching important understandings on key issues.

During the one-day event, in-depth discussions were held on a wide range of topics such as agriculture, intellectual property rights protection, investment, pharmaceuticals and medical devices, multilateral economic integration, as well as technical barriers to trade.

Cho Shih-chao, deputy minister of economic affairs and chief ROC representative at the meeting, said seeking support from the U.S. for Taiwan’s participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership is a top priority in the negotiations.

“Taiwan also looks forward to further collaboration with the U.S. under the framework of the World Trade Organization, including expanded dialogue on the Information Technology Agreement and Environmental Goods Agreement.”

Echoing Cho’s remarks, Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Robert Holleyman said TIFA remains a vibrant and active forum to produce results for businesses and people of the two economies.

The U.S continues to support efforts by Taiwan in implementing domestic reforms, Holleyman said, adding that “this is the most effective way to set a course for closer economic ties with the U.S. and other trading partners.”

According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Taiwan’s regulatory reforms relating to foreign investment, corporate mergers and acquisitions are welcomed by the U.S. as they help foster a predictable and transparent local investment environment.

With regards to IPR and protection, both sides agreed to bolster exchanges in enforcement and personnel training so as to enhance Taiwan’s capability in patent examination and trade secret protection.

Concerning agricultural issues, especially those involving imports of U.S. pork containing ractopamine, Taiwan reaffirmed its stated policy of separate treatment of American beef and pork.

The Taiwan delegation also raised issues concerning exports of dancing lady orchids potted in growing media and heat-treated meat products, among others.

In response, the U.S. said both economies have more work to do to ensure Taiwan’s health regulations are science-based and in line with international standards and its existing commitments.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=237254&ctNode=2194&mp=9)