TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — A Ministry of Agriculture official said Friday that the US decision to impose higher tariffs on Chinese goods could present an opportunity for Taiwanese tea growers to expand their presence in the American market.
In response to the new tariffs, Agriculture and Food Agency Deputy Director-General Huang Chao-hsing (黃昭興) hosted a briefing at the agency’s central branch to hear from industry stakeholders, per CNA. Huang noted that Taiwan exported NT$2.4 billion (US$73.79 million) worth of tea last year, with the US accounting for around NT$700 million, or 30% of total exports.
While Taiwanese tea currently represents about 3% of the US tea import market, Chinese tea holds a 12% share. Huang said that with the latest round of US tariff hikes targeting Chinese tea, the situation could be both a crisis and an opportunity for Taiwan’s tea industry.
Huang emphasized that Taiwan already bans the import of Chinese tea and requires all imported tea from other countries to be accompanied by a certificate of origin. To prevent the mislabeling of Chinese tea as Taiwanese, the government will strengthen origin verification procedures.
In response to the broader impact of tariffs on Taiwan, Huang outlined three government strategies: financial support, industry competitiveness enhancement, and domestic and international market expansion. A total budget of NT$18 billion has been allocated to assist affected sectors. An industry notification platform has also been established to monitor developments and adjust support measures as needed.
Chang Hsiao-li (張曉麗), secretary-general of the Taiwan Tea Manufacturers' Association, said there have been no reports of immediate export losses among growers. However, she acknowledged that the situation has prompted concerns over the risks of relying too heavily on a single export market.
While diversifying to other international markets is possible, Chang noted that certification and inspection costs pose a challenge. She expressed hope that the government would offer subsidies and support to help businesses improve product quality and strengthen competitiveness.
A tea supplier surnamed Tang (唐) from Mingjian Township in Nantou County said that Taiwan’s commercial tea exports to the US primarily consist of black tea, green tea, and oolong. While the full impact of the tariffs remains uncertain, Tang voiced concern that higher import duties could increase final consumer prices.
Huang Li-lun (黃立倫), a recipient of the MOA’s Top 100 Young Farmers Award, said he is both a tea farmer and merchant operating his own brand. With Taiwan-US tariff negotiations still ongoing, he said traders and clients are adopting a wait-and-see approach.
If tariffs on Taiwanese goods rise, Huang said selling prices may need to increase as well. However, he added that higher quality—especially for commercial teas—would help justify any price hikes by showcasing more distinct Taiwanese flavor profiles.
Huang also noted that many foreign consumers remain unaware of the differences between Chinese and Taiwanese teas. With the new US tariffs narrowing the price gap between the two, he believes this moment presents a unique opportunity to promote Taiwanese tea and highlight its distinct identity.
