The United States has confirmed for the first time that Taiwan has expressed its intention to join the US-initiated trade bloc, the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP). That was the word from US Trade Representative Michael Froman on Monday.
Froman said that the TPP will represent 40% of global GDP. Currently, in addition to the 12 countries that are already involved in TPP negotiations, six other countries are waiting to join, and Taiwan is one of them. The others include South Korea, the Philippines, and Thailand.
Foreign ministry spokesperson Anna Kao said on Thursday that Taiwan and the US are exchanging views on crucial issues at this point.
"Trade talks between Taiwan and the US are proceeding as scheduled. We resumed TIFA talks last year. We are also happy to see Japan’s support [for our TPP bid]," said Kao.
TIFA is the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement between Taiwan and the US.
Economics ministry official Kiang Wen-jo said she believes that the US and TPP member countries appreciate Taiwan’s efforts towards integrating into the global and regional economies.
"Every year, the American Chamber of Commerce in Taipei publishes the Taiwan White Paper. This year the paper praised Taiwan for moving towards liberalization," said Kiang. "In other words, TPP members, especially the US, have seen our efforts," she said.
The economics ministry said it will complete all the preparation for the consultation process to join the TPP by the end of July.