TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Premier Cho Jung-tai (卓榮泰) reassured the public of Taiwan’s importance in the global supply chain on Wednesday.

His remarks come as US President Donald Trump announced plans to impose tariffs on Taiwan’s semiconductors on Monday. Trump claimed that US tech companies had left and moved to Taiwan, suggesting a “25%, 50%, or even 100% tax” could force production back to the US.

Tariffs are a tax on imported goods, usually to protect domestic industry or raise revenue. However, they are paid by importers, who then pass costs onto consumers through increased prices.

In response, Cho said the Ministry of Economic Affairs and other agencies are closely monitoring the situation, per CNA. In a few days, the government will assess whether to introduce more assistance programs for the industry.

Cho added that Taiwan will use all available means to engage with countries and maintain its leading position in the industrial chain.

Meanwhile, Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) said Tuesday that Taiwan and the US have strong trade ties. She cited the mutual trust in high-tech industries like semiconductors as an example.

Kuo said Taiwan will maintain strong communication and cooperation with the US. This will help ensure the development of both nation’s industries and interests, she added.