South Korea has signaled that it is open to strengthening cooperation with Taiwan as both economies navigate U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposed chip tariffs. According to South Korea’s Trade Minister Yeo Han-koo, working together could help both countries secure better terms under the evolving U.S. semiconductor trade policies.
In a radio interview on Monday, Yeo explained that Taiwan is also negotiating with the United States on chip tariffs, creating an opportunity for South Korea and Taiwan to collaborate for the most favourable outcomes. He hinted that joint efforts could lead to stronger bargaining power in the face of shifting U.S. trade strategies.
Earlier this month, South Korea finalised a key trade deal with the United States, agreeing to boost investments in strategic American industries. In return, the U.S. promised reduced tariffs on Korean semiconductor exports. Taiwan, meanwhile, is still in the middle of similar trade negotiations, and the results may significantly influence future chip industry cooperation in Asia.
As part of the agreement with South Korea, Washington stated that U.S. semiconductor tariffs would not be harsher than those offered in any future deal involving a comparable level of chip trade. South Korean officials have interpreted this as a direct reference to Taiwan—its biggest competitor in the global semiconductor market.
At the same time, U.S. officials are quietly considering delaying the long-planned semiconductor tariffs, a key part of Trump’s economic agenda. According to recent Reuters reporting, the tariffs may not be imposed as quickly as initially expected, which could temporarily ease pressure on Asian chipmakers.
A South Korean official declined to say whether direct discussions with Taiwan regarding the tariff issue had taken place. However, industry watchers believe that cooperation could strengthen the region’s standing in the global semiconductor supply chain.
Meanwhile, South Korea’s semiconductor exports to the United States surged by 51.2% in October, reaching $1.2 billion. This rise reflects the growing demand for advanced chips, particularly those powering artificial intelligence technologies.
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