Taiwan Prepares for Trump's Tariffs, and a Changed Washington
Briefly

Taiwan is experiencing a notable shift in its relationship with the United States following President Trump’s second term. Once, it enjoyed bipartisan support as a democratic ally against China; now, the focus is less on shared ideals and more on transactional dealings. President Trump criticized Taiwan for low security spending and potential dominance in semiconductor production. Taiwanese officials actively seek to reassure the new administration of their commitment, fearing potential tariffs on semiconductors and pressure on businesses to relocate manufacturing to the U.S. This evolving dynamic signals a new challenge for Taiwan's global standing.
Not so long ago, Taiwan basked in seemingly boundless, bipartisan support in Washington, where the island has long been regarded as a valiant democratic partner against China. Now, a few weeks into President Donald J. Trump's second term, Taiwan is adjusting to a shift in its relationship with the United States.
Underlying their efforts is an anxiety over what Mr. Trump may do, for instance, to press Taiwanese companies to move advanced semiconductor production to the United States.
When Trump made those comments, I think it was a wake up call for people in Taiwan that they really didn't know what was coming next.
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