The United States and Taiwan reached an agreement on the negotiating mandate for the U.S.-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century trade that was announced on June 1. The negotiating mandate sets out the broad objectives shared by both countries for the upcoming negotiations.

The first round of talks will likely take place in the early fall. “Today, we begin negotiations with Taiwan that will deepen our trade and investment relationship, advance mutual trade priorities based on shared values, and promote innovation and inclusive economic growth for our workers and businesses,” says Deputy U.S. Trade Representative Sarah Bianchi.

The U.S. and Taiwan have set a robust agenda for negotiations on trade facilitation, good regulatory practices, strong anti-corruption standards, and enhancing trade between small and medium enterprises in both countries. “We plan to pursue an ambitious schedule for achieving high-standard commitments and meaningful outcomes to help build a prosperous 21st-century economy,” Bianchi adds.