Taiwan to gain in ECFA

He described the unique nature of the ECFA as a “WTO plus” pact possessing the benefits of offering each other more preferential tariff treatment than other trade partners under the general guidelines of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

Chen said the government will continue striving for better trade opportunities for Taiwan companies and other investors in Taiwan.

However, Chen also called for more patience on the part of Taiwan suppliers whose products are not on the “early harvest” list.

For example, he said raising the local-content rate is a vital factor for the auto industry. Like cooking fish, he explained, adequate time is needed. Otherwise the fish cannot be served and has to be processed once more, he said,

Meanwhile, Mainland Affairs Council Chairwoman Lai Shin-yuan, who joined Minister Shih in the briefing to lawmakers, denied opposition parties' claims that the pact, once concluded, will oblige Taiwan to open its market to all Chinese goods in a span of 10 years.

She said the pact has a “safety valve” with a termination clause that can terminate the agreement when necessary, and that the market-opening process will take into consideration the economic conditions of both signatories.

Concerning the continuing protest planned against the imminent signing of the ECFA by the opposition Democratic Progressive Party, Premier Wu Den-yih said he respects its rights for such an action.

But he stressed that the government will steadfastly stick to the principle of winning the best and most benefits for people and investors living and working in Taiwan.

1|2

PrintEmail

Write a Comment

Terms

Enter your comments - 3000 characters max

Type in image code

Submit

 Receive China Post promos
 Respond to this email