Source: Republic of China Taiwan
MOFA response to statements by China’s Foreign Ministry concerning Taiwan-US tariff consensus
Date：2026-01-16
Data Source：Department of North American Affairs
January 16, 2026
At a regular press conference on January 16, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed its firm opposition to the consensus reached between Taiwan and the United States on trade tariffs and related details.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) of the Republic of China (Taiwan) reiterates that the ROC (Taiwan) is a sovereign and independent country, that its sovereignty belongs to the people of Taiwan, and that the People’s Republic of China has never governed Taiwan. These are objective facts and the internationally recognized status quo. China has no right to comment on or interfere in the sovereign actions of other nations. China’s remarks underscore its hegemonic mindset and how, as a troublemaker, it attempts to unilaterally change the international order.
MOFA is pleased that Taiwan’s negotiation team, led by Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun and Minister without Portfolio Yang Jen-ni, successfully reached a consensus with the United States and concluded talks on trade tariffs and related details. On the basis of this foundation and under the leadership of President Lai Ching-te and the Executive Yuan, MOFA will continue to implement its core strategy of integrated diplomacy, working with relevant ministries to promote economic diplomacy and expand cooperation with the private sector. By encouraging large businesses to lead smaller ones, combining tangible and intangible assets, furthering public-private collaboration, and advancing foreign engagement through domestic business models, MOFA is building an economic and trade joint fleet with the United States and continuing to steadily foster a comprehensive economic and technological bilateral partnership.